A recent tweet alleging that Microsoft Office utilizes customer documents to enhance its AI models has sparked considerable concern, but the company clarifies that this is merely a misunderstanding.
A Linux user with a significant following tweeted the assertion…
NixCraft posted:
Alert: Microsoft Office, like numerous companies recently, has covertly activated an “opt-out” feature that extracts your Word and Excel files to improve its AI systems. This option is enabled by default, and users must manually deselect a checkbox to opt out. If you frequently use MS Word for writing any proprietary material (such as blog posts, novels, or any content you aim to protect with copyright or sell), it’s crucial to disable this feature immediately.
The tweet included a screenshot detailing a “new AI privacy agreement.”
To deactivate “Connected Experiences” on a Windows device, use these steps: File > Options > Trust Center > Trust Center Settings > Privacy Options > Privacy Settings > Optional Connected Experiences > Uncheck the box labeled: “Turn on optional connected experiences”
However, the official Microsoft 365 account responded, clarifying that the claim is inaccurate.
In the M365 applications, we do not leverage customer data to train LLMs. This setting only activates features that require internet connectivity, such as co-authoring documents.
DMN’s Perspective
Given the unethical practices we’ve witnessed concerning AI model training, it’s understandable that such claims circulate and gain traction. In this case, Microsoft’s clear denial emphasizes that this is based on a misunderstanding.
However, tech giants partly contribute to this confusion through excessively long and opaque privacy policies, making it challenging for users to comprehend their practices.
Earlier this year, Adobe faced a similar dilemma, exacerbated by an initially dismissive remark that failed to clarify the situation adequately. They were later compelled to issue a clearer statement.
Tech companies would benefit both themselves and their users by revising their privacy policies to be more concise and transparent.
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