The renowned video-conferencing platform, Zoom, has revised its terms of service after receiving a hefty backlash over AI data scraping without consent. Many online users expressed their intentions to discontinue use of Zoom over terms that seemingly allowed the platform to extract user data for AI training.
In July, Google also incorporated modifications to its privacy policies to allow data scraping for AI training, mirroring a common trend among tech firms. However, uproar typically follows these changes as users grapple with potential privacy implications. Indeed, in the wake of these alterations, European Union consumer protection groups called on regulators to scrutinise AI models utilised in chatbots, citing concerns over disinformation, data harvesting and potential manipulation.
Zoom’s initial use of customer data for AI training without consent resulted in users discovering questionable terms in their service agreement, leading to threats of a boycott. After a lively round of public backlash, the company clarified that it would not use user-generated content for AI training purposes without express approval. Zoom’s announcement reveals the tightrope tech companies walk between innovation and consumer privacy.
Additionally, the article touches on another recent crypto-related development. PayPal launched a new Ethereum-based stablecoin, PYUSD, which spurred mixed sentiments within the crypto community. On one hand, the launch is seen as a major step towards mainstream adoption of Ethereum. Alternatively, there’s rising apprehension about centralisation and a potential decline in personal control of assets — largely stemming from questionable features in PYUSD’s smart contract.
The launch of PYUSD has been perceived as an advancing step for Ethereum’s adoption, bringing it closer to becoming the monetary layer of the internet. However, apprehensions raise issues about the over-centralisation of digital currencies and the overall erosion of personal control over financial assets. This double-edged sword reflects the constant push and pull that is currently shaping the landscape of cryptocurrencies and Decentralised Finance.
As with all advancements in tech and crypto-space, these recent developments illustrate the delicate equilibrium needed to foster innovation while preserving user trust. It seems the golden rule remains true: with great power comes great responsibility. Strict adherence to ethical guidelines and transparent communication are among the strongest strategies for tech giants to navigate these territories and maintain their market influence while ensuring consumer trust remains intact. As spectators and participants in this technological drama, staying informed and critical is paramount.
Source: Cointelegraph
