Meta faces lawsuits over AI training data and face recognition
Meta is being sued for allegedly using Facebook and Instagram photos without consent to train AI models and build face recognition systems.
Meta sued over AI training data and face recognition
Meta is facing a proposed class action lawsuit alleging it illegally harvested photos from Facebook and Instagram to train AI models like Emu and Muse Image, and to build its unreleased 'NameTag' face recognition system. The suit, filed in federal court in Chicago, claims Meta violated Illinois and California privacy laws by extracting biometric data without consent.
NameTag's hidden functionality
WIRED reported in June that code for NameTag was embedded in Meta's smart glasses companion app, downloaded over 50 million times. The system was designed to convert faces captured by the glasses into biometric signatures and match them against a local database that could receive updates from Meta. The complaint alleges this database may have been populated with photos from Facebook and Instagram.
Generative AI training under scrutiny
The lawsuit also targets Meta's image-generation systems, arguing the company illegally used biometric data from photos to train models like Emu and Muse Image. Meta has previously described its social media platforms as a 'data advantage' for AI development. Muse Image drew criticism this summer for briefly allowing image generation based on public Instagram accounts.
Potential class size and damages
The proposed class includes U.S. residents whose images appeared on Meta platforms since September 2021, potentially numbering in millions. Under Illinois law, plaintiffs seek $5,000 per intentional violation or $1,000 per negligent violation, plus injunctive relief. California claims could bring additional damages.
Meta's response and history
A Meta spokesperson called the lawsuit 'without merit,' stating no decision has been made about releasing NameTag. The company has faced previous biometric privacy actions, including a $650 million Illinois settlement in 2020 over face recognition and a $1.4 billion Texas resolution in 2024.
Technical implementation details
The complaint cites a Meta patent describing face matching against profile photos and other platform images. While Meta claims it's not building a 'universal face database,' the suit argues the company hasn't disclosed which images were used for biometric data extraction.
User control concerns
The case highlights ongoing tensions between AI development and personal privacy. As one plaintiff attorney stated: 'People shouldn't have to worry if their biometric information will be misused simply because their photographs appear on a social media platform.'
What creators should know
Media professionals using AI tools should review platform terms regarding training data sources. Those concerned about facial recognition can check app permissions and disable unnecessary camera/photo access. The outcome of this case may influence how social media platforms handle user content for AI development.
