In the last hours, Microsoft had to respond to rumors suggesting it was using user data your Microsoft 365 apps like Word and Excel to train your AI models. The information, which quickly spread on social networks and was covered by some media outlets, raised concerns among many users about the possible use of their data without consent.

The confusion appears to have arisen from a combination of factors. On the one hand, Microsoft 365’s “optional connected features”. are enabled by default and enable features such as searching for online information in Office applications. Although these options analyze user content and offer suggestions, Redmond says they are not at any point designed to collect data for AI training purposes. But on the other hand, a document published by Microsoft in October 2024 contained descriptions that some believe could be misinterpreted in this context.

Faced with growing concerns Microsoft categorically denied these rumors. In a post on its official Twitter account, the company said: “In M365 applications, we do not use customer data for LLM training«. In addition, Frank Shaw, head of communications at Microsoft, echoed this message on platforms such as Bluesky, emphasizing the company’s commitment to protecting the privacy and control of its users’ data. It was also emphasized that users have access to clear settings to manage their privacy and decide which features they want to activate or deactivate.

In M365 applications, we do not use customer data for LLM training. This setting only enables features that require Internet access, such as document co-authoring. https://t.co/o9DGn9QnHb

—Microsoft 365 (@Microsoft365) November 25, 2024

Similar cases have also happened with other technology companies. At the beginning of this year Adobe faced a similar situation when it was misinterpreted that users’ creative works could be used to train their generative AI models. The company was quick to clarify the terms to avoid any misunderstandings. These types of episodes have highlighted the importance of clear communication and transparent privacy policies to build trust between users.

Besides, The debate over how tech companies use personal data to develop AI is far from over.. Regulators around the world are taking a closer look at data collection and use practices as users demand more transparency and control options. For example, in the European Union, legislation such as GDPR has introduced a stricter framework that requires companies to justify how and why they use their customers’ data.

This incident It highlights growing user concerns about how tech companies manage data personality in the age of artificial intelligence. While giants like Meta and Google have chosen to include public data in their AI training processes, Microsoft is trying to differentiate itself with clearer policies for handling its customers’ information. These initiatives not only seek to dispel doubts, but also create a standard of trust that could serve as a reference for other companies in the industry.

For now, Microsoft has made it clear that Microsoft 365 users can continue to use productivity tools without worry Your data is not used to develop artificial intelligence technologies. In the long run, these types of commitments could change user perceptions and strengthen Microsoft’s position as a technology and privacy leader.