LinkedIn is currently facing a proposed class action lawsuit that claims the social media platform improperly shared the private InMail messages of its Premium customers with third parties without obtaining the necessary consent to train generative artificial intelligence (AI) models. The class action was initiated on 22 January.

The lawsuit asserts that LinkedIn was “fully aware” of its infringement on user privacy and attempted to “conceal its actions” by revising its privacy policy in September. This revision indicated that user data could be utilized for AI model training and included an FAQ section clarifying that opting out of data sharing through a privacy setting introduced in August would not impact any training that had already occurred.

The plaintiffs, representing millions of Premium users, are seeking damages for breaches of contract and violations of California’s unfair competition statutes. Furthermore, they are requesting compensation of $1,000 for each individual allegedly affected by federal Stored Communications Act violations.

LinkedIn has refuted the allegations, asserting that the claims are without merit.