How to Block Meta’s Use Of Instagram Posts in A.I.

By the Editorial Team · Friday, July 10, 2026

Meta Platforms launched Muse Image, an AI tool that generates images using photos from public Instagram accounts by default unless users opt out. The rollout sparked privacy concerns, but Meta allows users to disable the feature through account settings and plans to expand its AI capabilities with a forthcoming video generator.

Meta Platforms Inc. recently introduced a new artificial intelligence image generator, Muse Image, which allows users to create AI-generated images using photos from public Instagram accounts. The feature, launched on Tuesday, automatically includes all adults with public Instagram profiles unless they choose to opt out.

Through the Meta AI app, a standalone chatbot, users can tag any public Instagram account and instruct the system to generate new images based on some or all of the tagged user's published photos. Meta stated on its blog that its AI features may incorporate Instagram content to create new material.

The announcement prompted immediate criticism from users concerned about privacy and consent. Many expressed frustration that Meta did not provide prior notification before using their images in AI creations. Social media platforms saw discussions and shared instructions among users on how to disable the feature.

Meta clarified that the feature excludes private Instagram accounts and users under the age of 18. The company also emphasized that users can deactivate the reuse of their content in AI-generated images with a few simple steps. Setting an Instagram profile to private automatically blocks participation, while users can also toggle off permissions under the “share and reuse” settings in the app to maintain a public account but prevent AI use of their images.

However, Meta noted that certain types of content, such as audio, text, and comments, cannot currently be excluded from use by its AI systems. The company added it will enforce content policies to address any violations related to misuse of user-generated content.

Meta’s move follows similar developments in the AI field. OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, previously offered an AI video generator called Sora, which required users to opt in before their likenesses could be used. OpenAI discontinued Sora in March, citing high operating costs amid privacy concerns.

Meta’s AI image generator is the latest step in the company’s broader strategy to integrate artificial intelligence into its family of social media applications, including Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Threads. Besides AI-generated images, Meta has also launched AI “characters” that users can interact with, each exhibiting different personalities. The company plans to introduce an AI video generator, Muse Video, in the near future.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.