Zoom Reverses Policy Allowing AI Training on Customer Data: What You Need to Know

Zoom has revised its terms of service following backlash over recent updates that permitted the use of customer data for AI training. A report from StackDiary revealed that the initial changes, rolled out quietly in March, granted Zoom extensive rights to utilize customer data for AI purposes. In response to ongoing concerns, Zoom released a blog post clarifying that it does not train AI models on customer video, audio, or chat without explicit consent.

The controversy partially stemmed from Zoom's AI tools, such as IQ Meeting Summary and IQ Team Chat Compose, where only account owners can provide consent to use these features. Other participants are left with limited options: accept the terms or exit the meeting.

The notable concern centers around Zoom's stated right to utilize customer data for machine learning, which could allow the company to train its AI on user content without providing an opt-out option. This has raised significant discussions regarding user privacy and consent.

In its blog post, Zoom's Chief Product Officer, Smita Hashim, emphasized that account owners and administrators must consent to share data for AI training, underscoring that the data is solely used to enhance the accuracy of these services. Hashim reassured users that any shared data would not be employed for training third-party models.

She explained, "Customers retain ownership of their content, even when we use it for services like livestreaming a webinar." Hashim further stated, “We will not use customer content, including educational records or protected health information, for AI model training without your consent.”

The newly added terms clarify Zoom's commitment: “Zoom will not use audio, video, or chat Customer Content to train our artificial intelligence models without your consent.”

“Our objective is to empower Zoom account owners and administrators to maintain control over these features and decisions,” Hashim concluded, aiming to clarify the implications for various customer groups.