WeTransfer Clarifies AI Data Usage Following User Backlash

WeTransfer has responded to significant user backlash regarding its updated terms of service that suggested the potential use of uploaded files for artificial intelligence (AI) training. Following the controversy, a company spokeswoman confirmed that WeTransfer does not actually use uploaded files for AI training and does not sell user content or data to third parties. The new terms, which aim to clarify the company's approach to AI usage, allow WeTransfer to use user content only for improving their service, not for training AI models.

The initial terms, introduced to address the use of AI for content moderation and harmful content identification, led to confusion that alarmed users, especially those in creative fields, prompting some to consider alternatives to the service. To address these concerns, the updated terms clarify that users grant WeTransfer a royalty-free license solely for operating and developing the service, and these revised terms will take effect on August 8 for existing users.

This incident reflects a broader trend regarding transparency in AI usage policies, as seen in similar clarifications made by Dropbox. Experts such as data protection lawyer Mona Schroedel warn that terms of service changes could hide the exploitation of user data under the guise of service improvements, raising significant trust issues between tech companies and their users.