Instagram’s new AI image generator uses your photos — here’s how to opt out
Last week, Meta launched an AI image generator on Instagram that can take your existing photos and turn them into new, AI-created images. Privacy experts immediately raised concerns, pointing out that the feature is enabled by default for public accounts. If you have a public profile, your photos are being used to train and produce AI-generated content unless you actively opt out.
Here’s what the feature does, why it matters, and exactly how to turn it off.
What happened
Instagram’s new tool, part of Meta’s broader rollout of generative AI features, allows users to upload or select a photo and have the AI generate variations—often producing images that resemble deepfakes. According to The Guardian, the feature has “alarmed privacy experts” because it relies on public photos without explicit consent. Inkl reported that “most public users are included unless they opt out.”
Meta has stated that only images from public accounts are used for AI training. Private accounts are not included. But given that many Instagram users have public profiles—especially influencers, businesses, and those seeking reach—the default opt-in means millions of photos may already be feeding the system.
Why it matters
The core issue is consent. Users did not agree to have their likeness used as training data for AI generation tools. Even if a photo seems harmless, AI generators can combine it with others to create convincing deepfakes. Privacy advocates warn that this increases the risk of identity theft, impersonation, and non-consensual synthetic media.
The Guardian article quotes experts who call the move “a clear step backward for user privacy” and highlight the lack of a clear way to remove existing data—only an opt-out for future use. Meta says public images are used to “improve the quality” of the AI, but critics argue the trade-off is not transparent.
For now, the feature is opt-out for public accounts. That places the burden on you to manage your privacy settings, rather than on Meta to ask permission first.
What readers can do
Opt out of AI training on Instagram
Follow these steps to disable the use of your photos in Instagram’s AI image generator:
- Open Instagram and go to your profile.
- Tap the three horizontal lines (menu) in the top-right corner.
- Go to Settings and privacy.
- Scroll down and tap AI and data (or similar heading; the exact label may vary by region).
- Look for an option like “AI image generation” or “Use my photos for AI training.”
- Toggle it off.
Meta has stated that once you opt out, your future posts will not be used for AI training. It is not yet clear whether previously uploaded images are removed from the training dataset. If the option is missing, check again after updating the app—Instagram has been rolling this out gradually.
Make your account private (if you haven’t already)
The easiest way to stop any public use of your images is to switch your account to private. Private accounts are not included in the AI training, according to Meta. To do so:
- Go to Settings and privacy > Account privacy > toggle Private account on.
What to do if a deepfake of you appears
If you find an AI-generated image of yourself on Instagram that was created without your permission:
- Report the post using Instagram’s reporting tools (select “It’s pretending to be me” or a similar reason).
- Contact Meta’s support through the Help Center. Be prepared to provide evidence.
- Consider legal options. Laws around deepfakes vary by country, but some jurisdictions now allow civil remedies for unauthorized use of likeness. Consult a lawyer if the situation is serious.
Stay proactive
This feature is unlikely to be the last. Follow privacy-focused accounts or news sources that track Meta’s policy changes. Regularly review your privacy settings, especially when new AI tools are announced.
Sources
- “Instagram’s AI image generator alarms privacy experts,” The Guardian, July 9, 2026.
- “Meta’s New AI Can Turn Instagram Photos Into Deepfakes. Most Public Users Are Included Unless They Opt Out,” inkl, July 9, 2026.
- Instagram Help Center (official documentation on AI and data settings).