As concerns rise globally over the use of online content for training artificial intelligence models, social media platforms are tightening their terms of service to protect user data. Decentralized social network Mastodon (Open-source software platform for decentralized social networking with microblogging features) is the latest to take a strong stand, announcing updated rules that explicitly prohibit the use of user data for training AI models, including large language models (LLMs).
The platform informed users via email that effective July 1, any attempts to scrape data from its servers for purposes such as archival or AI training will be strictly forbidden.
“We explicitly prohibit the scraping of user data for unauthorized purposes, such as archival or large language model training,” the platform stated.
New Rules Target Automated Systems
Mastodon’s updated terms include legal language banning the use of automated tools like bots, scrapers, spiders, and other data-mining technologies. These restrictions are meant to prevent entities particularly AI companies from extracting user-generated content without consent.
The platform clarified that only standard browsing, local caching, and human interaction with content are permitted. Any form of automated system used to access data, unless allowed under standard internet operations, will be considered a violation of the terms.
However, these changes currently apply only to Mastodon.social, which is one instance (or server) in the broader Fediverse a decentralized network of independently operated servers. This means other instances may still be vulnerable unless they adopt similar policies.
Broader Industry Trend
Mastodon joins a growing list of tech platforms introducing such measures. In recent months, companies including Reddit, OpenAI, and The Browser Company have updated their policies to prevent the use of their data for AI training by third parties. X (formerly Twitter), now owned by Elon Musk, also recently amended its terms to block AI model development using its data.
Age Limit Policy Updated Globally
In addition to curbing AI data scraping, Mastodon has introduced a new minimum age requirement of 16 years for all users worldwide. Previously, the platform allowed users aged 13 and above in countries like the United States. The new rule aims to create a safer online environment, particularly for younger users.
Source: Techcrunch
