Originally Published 7 months ago — by TribLIVE.com
The notice informs Virginia residents about their privacy rights under state law, offering options to opt out of data sale and full site features, with instructions to manage preferences or update location for non-residents.
Google’s Gemini AI has been accused of scanning PDF files on Google Drive without user permission, raising significant privacy concerns. Despite attempts to disable the feature, users like Kevin Bankston found it difficult to stop Gemini from accessing their documents. Google maintains that its AI features require proactive user enablement and handle data in a privacy-preserving manner, but the incident underscores the need for clear user control and consent in AI integrations.
Dropbox faced backlash after it was discovered that a new AI feature, enabled by default, shared user data with OpenAI for an experimental search feature. Dropbox clarified that data is only shared when the feature is actively used and is deleted within 30 days. Despite assurances, some users expressed concerns about data privacy and criticized the lack of clear communication. Dropbox CEO apologized for the confusion and emphasized that user data is not automatically sent to third-party AI services. The feature can be easily disabled in the account settings.
India's lower house of parliament has approved a revised data privacy bill that requires companies to obtain explicit user consent before processing their data, but includes exemptions for certain legitimate uses. The bill also grants discretionary authority to the government, including the power to waive compliance requirements for startups and establish a data protection board. Critics have expressed concerns about the bill's provisions and its failure to safeguard individuals' right to privacy. The bill must still be approved by the upper house and the Indian president to become law.