Tumblr and WordPress: Sharing Your Data with AI?

The news has been swirling: are Tumblr and WordPress, two popular online platforms, selling your data to AI companies? While the situation isn't as clear-cut as headlines might suggest, understanding the details is crucial for any user concerned about their online privacy.

What's the Story?

In February 2024, reports emerged that Automattic, the parent company of both Tumblr and WordPress.com, was considering partnerships with AI firms like OpenAI and Midjourney. The purpose? Sharing user-generated content to train and improve their AI models. This sparked concerns among users, worried about the potential misuse of their data and the implications for their privacy.

What Data is Being Shared?

Automattic has clarified that only public content from non-opt-out sites will be shared. This means:

• Private content, like blog posts or messages, remains protected.
• Users can choose to opt-out of their content being used this way.
• Only content from sites hosted on WordPress.com and Tumblr is included. Self-hosted WordPress sites not hosted directly on WordPress.com are not affected.

However, specific details about the data being shared and the partnerships remain somewhat opaque. This lack of transparency fuels concerns about the potential misuse of user data and the long-term consequences.

What are the Concerns?

Many users are concerned about several aspects of this data sharing:

• Privacy: Sharing even public content raises concerns, as it can still reveal personal details or be used in unforeseen ways.
• Attribution: Users worry about their content being used without proper attribution, potentially leading to plagiarism or misrepresentation.
• Control: Some users feel they lack sufficient control over how their data is used, even if it's public.

What are Your Options?

Here's what you can do:

• Review your privacy settings on both WordPress and Tumblr.
• Opt-out of having your content shared with AI companies.
• Choose not to create public content if you're concerned about your privacy.
• Explore alternative platforms that align better with your privacy preferences.

The Future of Data Sharing with AI

This situation highlights the growing debate surrounding data ownership and use in the age of AI. As AI development accelerates, it's crucial to have transparent conversations about data sharing, user consent, and responsible AI development practices.

Remember: It's always recommended to stay informed about how platforms like Tumblr and WordPress manage your data. By understanding your options and taking control of your privacy settings, you can make informed decisions about your online presence.