Zoom can now train its AI using customer data

The article discusses Zoom's updated Terms of Service, which grants the company the right to train artificial intelligence (AI) on user data. However, Zoom executives have stated that they will not utilize video calls for AI training, despite this capacity being included in the service terms. The update has raised questions about privacy and consent.

Zoom's Updated Terms of Service:

Zoom updated its Terms of Service in March to include the right to train AI using user data.

These data, including video, audio, and chat transcripts, are referred to as "Customer Content".

Upon agreement, users grant Zoom permission to use this data for various purposes including AI training.

Company's Assurance:

In a blog post, Zoom's Chief Product Officer Smita Hashim clarified that they do not use customer content for AI training without consent.

She highlighted that while the company uses data for some machine learning, it does not use audio, video, or chat content for training AI models without customer consent.

Zoom's AI Services:

Zoom has services that generate content using AI, including "Zoom IQ", which summarizes chat threads and assists with automated responses.

When users enable Zoom IQ, they agree to let Zoom collect data to improve its AI unless they manually uncheck the default box.

Privacy Concerns:

Zoom's Terms of Service changes sparked outrage on Hacker News, an influential forum.

Particularly concerning is the lack of an option to opt out of allowing Zoom to train its AI using "Service Generated Content".

Previous Privacy Issues:

Zoom's track record on privacy is marred by controversies, including a lawsuit alleging the company had misrepresented the security of its encryption.

The company had to pay an $85 million settlement in 2021 over user data sharing with Google and Facebook and other issues.

Changes in Work Policy:

Last week, Zoom modified its work-from-home policy, requiring employees living near a company office to work in-person at least two days a week.

This change has been seen by many as signaling the end of the remote work era catalyzed by the pandemic.