Data Doctors: Is Google using my email messages to train AI?
WTOP • • technology
Key Points:
- A viral story claimed that Gmail automatically opted users into a program allowing Google to train its AI on private emails, but this version is inaccurate; Google denied using Gmail content to train its Gemini AI model or changing any settings.
- The confusion arose from Google's changes in wording and placement of existing “Smart Features” settings, not from new settings or silent enrollment, as confirmed by the original cybersecurity firm and fact-checkers like Snopes.
- Gmail has long scanned emails to provide services such as spam filtering, spell check, smart replies, and inbox sorting, which are essential features rather than surveillance.
- Users should review and adjust their “Smart Features” settings on both desktop and mobile to ensure their preferences are accurately reflected, as these controls are confusing and sometimes cause reenrollment in features.
- Google’s free “Privacy Checkup” tool is recommended for users to review their data sharing and ad personalization settings, highlighting the importance of regularly revisiting default privacy settings.
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