WeTransfer, the popular file-sharing platform, updated its terms of service on a Tuesday to address confusion surrounding its use of customer data. The company amended Clause 6.3 to read more clearly. It clearly communicates that they do not deploy any machine learning or artificial intelligence (AI) in their content moderation process. This change is still scheduled to go into effect on August 8 for current users.
Customers expressed concern that they wouldn’t control how their files were utilized. In part due to that backlash, the company quickly reversed course and changed the terms. In a statement, a WeTransfer spokeswoman emphasized the company’s commitment to user privacy, stating, “We don’t use machine learning or any form of AI to process content shared via WeTransfer, nor do we sell content or data to any third parties.” This clarification is intended to provide users with the confidence that whatever they upload to our site is safe and private.
The revised terms also get at some major issues related to AI and data use. Users then agree to terms that explicitly provide WeTransfer a worldwide, nonexclusive, royalty-free license to utilize their content. This license is intended for “operating, developing, and improving the Service,” as outlined in the company’s Privacy & Cookie Policy. This clause has been a huge source of debate among users. They want to know how their data will be used long-term and beyond the scope of the study.
The company admitted that the original language of Clause 6.3 might have misled and confused its extensive user base. By introducing some plain English, WeTransfer wants to build trust and transparency with its users.
WeTransfer relaunches platform with a renewed focus on addressing customer painpoints. With this timing, they underscore their proactive commitment to data privacy and security, now greatly imperative. As companies do more with technology and AI, users are now more aware and concerned about how their information is collected and used.