In recent developments, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, now referred to as X, has stirred up controversy by announcing changes to its Privacy Policy. According to reports, X intends to collect user biometric data, job histories, and education information. Furthermore, according to a recently published privacy policy, X intends to use this data and other personal information it gathers to develop artificial intelligence (AI) models. The ramifications of these modifications have been questioned in light of this remarkable development.
The company's bold approach to utilizing both the data it collects and publicly available information for training machine learning algorithms is clearly outlined in its transparent privacy policy. This unique strategy has garnered considerable attention and recognition in the industry. This change in X's strategy has drawn attention and spurred discussions regarding the scope of data gathering and its potential uses.
Owner of X Elon Musk confirmed this policy change but made clear that only data that is already publicly available will be gathered. He reassured users that private messages (DMs) and confidential data would not be accessed or used. With no formal press arm for X, obtaining detailed information about the collected data types and their specific uses remains challenging.
Although X doesn't explicitly state that it wants to advance AI, Elon Musk's recent investment in a company called xAI suggests otherwise. Understanding the underlying nature of the cosmos is central to XAI's aim, and there are signs that it will work closely with X to achieve this challenging objective. This suggests that user data, including biometric data and associated information, can aid in advancing science.
Elon Musk's plans to compete with LinkedIn present another potential use for this data. Musk has publicly dissed LinkedIn, calling it "cringe," and stated his goal to establish X as a more alluring substitute. This idea of developing a "cool" employment platform could be connected to the gathering of user career histories and educational backgrounds.
Finally, there's the matter of X's revenue generation. Unlike some social media platforms, X has not been known for its advertising profits. Therefore, some speculate that selling user data could be a viable option to boost revenue. However, it's crucial to note that no concrete evidence supports this speculation. X's past practices leaned more towards utilizing collected user data for its own benefit rather than sharing it with third parties.
To sum up, X's most recent privacy policy modifications have sparked debates regarding the company's goals and the ramifications for user data. Although Musk has reassured customers that only information readily accessible to the public will be gathered, it is still unclear what will be done with this data in the long run. It remains to be seen if it will be used for scientific research, to create a LinkedIn rival, or to generate cash. Users will likely pay close attention to how their data is utilized as the digital world develops and assess if it meets their expectations and privacy concerns.
Read next: Community Notes On X Gives Members New Option To Mark Notes About Misleading Images
