Starting November 3, 2025: Microsoft will have access to LinkedIn data under the revised privacy policy. It will allow the use of user-generated data for artificial intelligence training and personalized advertising. The changes, announced by the Microsoft-owned professional networking platform, apply to all users globally.
What’s Changing under the LinkedIn Data Privacy Terms that you Ought to Know?
Under the updated terms, LinkedIn will begin using publicly visible profile information, including job history, education, and user posts, to train its AI models. Private messages will remain excluded from this data pool. The company states that the move aims to enhance platform features and improve user connectivity.
Microsoft, LinkedIn’s parent company, will also gain access to this data for ad targeting purposes. This means users may begin seeing more personalized advertisements based on their LinkedIn activity and profile content.
Opt-Out Options Available: But Buried in Settings
While the default setting enables data sharing, LinkedIn offers users the ability to opt out of both AI training and ad personalization. However, these controls are not prominently displayed and require navigating through multiple layers of settings.
To opt out of AI training:
- Tap the profile icon (top-right)
- Go to “Settings & Privacy”
- Select “Data Privacy”
- Tap “Data for Generative AI Improvement”
- Disable “Use my data for training content creation AI models”
To opt out of personalized ads:
- Tap the profile icon
- Go to “Settings & Privacy”
- Select “Advertising Data”
- Scroll to “Share data with affiliates and partners”
- Turn off the toggle
These steps allow users to retain more control over how their data is used, though awareness of these options remains low.
Industry Context and User Concerns
LinkedIn joins a growing list of tech platforms leveraging user data to develop AI capabilities. Adobe recently faced criticism for similar practices, prompting revisions to its terms to protect creator content.
The broader trend reflects a shift in how companies balance innovation with user privacy. While AI development promises improved services, it also raises questions about consent, transparency, and data governance.
As platforms continue to evolve, users may need to become more proactive in managing their digital footprints.
