The technological revolution continues to set the pace for business transformations, with artificial intelligence (AI) emerging as a key element in redefining business models on a global scale. From improving internal processes to offering personalized customer experiences, companies have embraced AI not just as a tool but as a strategic partner to enhance their competitiveness. Amid this backdrop, LinkedIn faces a lawsuit for allegedly disclosing customer information to train AI models.
LinkedIn Sued Over Privacy Violations
On Wednesday, it was revealed that Microsoft’s LinkedIn has been sued by Premium customers who claim the business-focused social media platform disclosed their private messages to third parties without consent to train generative AI models.
According to a proposed class-action lawsuit filed Tuesday night on behalf of millions of LinkedIn Premium customers, the platform quietly introduced a privacy setting last August that allowed users to opt in or out of sharing their personal data.
The plaintiffs allege that LinkedIn discreetly updated its privacy policy on September 18, 2024, stating that user data could be used to train AI models. Furthermore, a linked FAQ page clarified that opting out “does not affect training that has already occurred.”
This alleged attempt to “cover its tracks” suggests LinkedIn was “fully aware” it was violating customer privacy and its promise to use personal data solely to support and improve the platform. The lawsuit claims this was done to minimize public scrutiny and legal consequences.
The lawsuit was filed in the federal court of San Jose, California, on behalf of LinkedIn Premium customers who sent or received InMail messages and whose private information was disclosed to third parties for AI training before September 18.
The plaintiffs seek unspecified damages for breach of contract and violations of California’s Unfair Competition Law, along with $1,000 per person for violations of the federal Stored Communications Act.
Microsoft did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Wednesday. An attorney for the plaintiffs also declined to provide additional remarks.
The lawsuit was filed just hours after former President Donald Trump announced a joint venture between OpenAI (Microsoft-affiliated), Oracle, and SoftBank, with a potential $500 billion investment to build AI infrastructure in the United States.
The case is De La Torre v. LinkedIn Corp, U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, Case No. 25-00709.
AI Adoption on the Rise Globally
According to a recent report from a leading technology consulting firm, over 60% of businesses worldwide have already started integrating AI solutions into their business models. This figure marks significant growth compared to five years ago, when only 20% had adopted such technologies. In sectors such as finance, retail, and manufacturing, AI is not only present but is also reshaping the rules of the game.
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