Opt Out of Meta AI Data Training: Step-by-Step

Updated 6 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

This guide explains how to stop Meta from using your Facebook and Instagram activity to train its AI models. You’ll learn the exact privacy settings to adjust in both apps, plus how to submit a formal objection where available. No technical skills are needed, just a few minutes and access to your accounts.

What You’ll Need

Access to your Facebook or Instagram account (or both)
The latest version of the Facebook or Instagram app, or a web browser
Your login credentials

Step-by-Step

Meta’s AI training opt-out process differs depending on your region and the platform. Follow the steps for each app you use. The core method is the same: locate the AI-related privacy setting and turn it off.

On Facebook (App or Web)

Open Facebook and tap your profile picture (bottom right on mobile, top right on desktop) to go to Settings & Privacy.
Select Settings, then scroll to find Your Activity or Privacy.
Look for a section called Meta AI or Generative AI. This may appear as a separate menu item or under “Privacy Center.”
Tap Meta AI and then find the option that says Your activity and information or AI training.
You should see a toggle or checkbox labeled Allow Meta to use your activity and information for generative AI. Turn it off.
Confirm your choice if prompted. Meta may ask you to explain why; you can select any reason or skip.

On Instagram (App or Web)

Open Instagram and go to your profile. Tap the hamburger menu (three lines) in the top right.
Tap Settings and privacy.
Scroll down to the Your activity section and tap Meta AI.
Tap Your activity and information.
Find the toggle for Allow Meta to use your activity and information for generative AI and switch it off.
Confirm the change. You may need to enter your password or complete a security check.

If You Don’t See the Option (EU/UK Users)

In the European Union and UK, Meta is required to offer a formal objection process under GDPR. If you don’t see a simple toggle, you’ll need to submit a request:

Go to the Meta Privacy Center (accessible via the Settings menu on Facebook or Instagram).
Search for “Generative AI” or “AI data” in the help center.
Find the article titled How to object to the use of your information for generative AI.
Click the link in that article to open the objection form.
Fill out the form with your name, email, and the specific reason you object. Select the option that says you don’t want your data used for AI training.
Submit the form. Meta says they will review it and may take up to a few weeks to respond.

For Users in Other Regions

If you don’t see any AI-related settings, it may be because Meta hasn’t rolled out the opt-out to your country yet. Check back periodically, or use the objection form if available. If neither exists, you can limit your data by not posting, liking, or commenting—but that’s not a formal opt-out.

Common Mistakes

Only turning it off on one app. Facebook and Instagram are separate apps; you must repeat the steps in both.
Looking for the wrong setting. The toggle is not under “Ad Preferences” or “Data Sharing.” It’s specifically under Meta AI or Generative AI.
Assuming the toggle is permanent. Meta may reset settings after updates; check periodically.
Confusing the AI opt-out with ad personalization. Turning off ad tracking does not stop AI training.
Skipping the confirmation step. If you don’t confirm, the change may not save.

Tips

Do this on both your phone and computer if you use both—the setting is synced, but it’s good to verify.
Use the web version (facebook.com) if the app is confusing; the menu structure is often clearer.
Take a screenshot of the confirmation screen as proof, in case you need to contact support.
If you’re in the EU/UK, submit the formal objection form even if you also turned off the toggle—it creates a legal record.
Check Meta’s Privacy Policy updates regularly, as they change how AI training works.

Troubleshooting

I can’t find the Meta AI setting. If the option isn’t visible, update your app to the latest version. If it’s still missing, your account may not be eligible yet. Try searching the help center for “generative AI” to see if there’s a direct link.

The toggle turns back on by itself. This can happen if you’re using an outdated app. Update the app, log out and back in, then try again. If it persists, contact Meta support.

I submitted the objection form but got no response. Wait at least 30 days. If you still hear nothing, check your spam folder for an email from Meta. You can also follow up via the help center.

I’m in a region where no option exists. You can still limit data collection by reviewing your privacy settings, but there’s no official opt-out yet. Keep an eye on Meta’s announcements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does turning off the toggle delete my data that Meta already used?
A: No. It only prevents future use. Meta says it will stop using your data going forward, but cannot remove data already incorporated into trained models.

Q: Will this affect my ads or recommendations?
A: No. The AI training opt-out is separate from ad personalization. You’ll still see ads and content recommendations as before.

Q: Is there a way to opt out all at once for both Facebook and Instagram?
A: No, you must do it separately for each app. However, if you submit a formal objection form, you can mention both accounts in one request.

Q: Does this stop Meta from using my public posts?
A: Yes, the setting covers all your activity and information, including public posts, likes, and comments.

Q: Will Meta notify me if they change the policy again?
A: Meta typically announces policy changes via email or notifications, but it’s wise to check your settings every few months.

Q: Can I opt out for a business account?
A: Yes, the steps are the same for business and personal accounts. If you manage a business, you may also need to check the Business Suite settings.

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.