Meta has recently introduced a new feature that allows Facebook to upload your private photos to its cloud, even those you might not want to share. This move reflects an ongoing trend where users are encouraged to surrender their data to various companies. With this feature, Meta seeks permission to access your entire camera roll and continuously upload images based on criteria like time, location, and themes.
The prompt for this feature appears when users create a story on Facebook, asking them to opt into “cloud processing.” While it may sound harmless, the implications are concerning. According to Meta, they select media from your camera rolls to upload for creating personalized ideas.
Though the company claims these images won’t be used for targeted ads, the access to private photos raises significant privacy concerns. Meta’s history with user data protection only adds to this unease. If you opt into this service, you essentially grant Meta permission to access all your images, including those you wish to keep private.
Moreover, you also allow the company to upload these images to its cloud. Given previous issues with data handling, such as storing hundreds of millions of passwords in plain text, it’s wise to think twice before opting in. Since Meta also owns Instagram, it’s possible that similar changes could impact that platform as well.
For those using either app, it’s crucial to read any prompts regarding data usage carefully, as companies often understate how they will utilize your information. If you’ve already opted in but want to revoke your consent, it’s important to note that these settings can only be adjusted through a mobile device. Here’s how to do it on an iPhone:
1.
Open the Facebook app. 2. Tap the “+” icon at the top of the screen.
3. Select “Story.” 4.
Tap the settings cog in the top right corner. 5. Go to “Camera roll settings.”
6. Toggle off the option to allow camera roll cloud processing.
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