Dropbox faces user backlash over default setting that shares your data with OpenAI

Yesterday, numerous users voiced concerns on social media regarding a newly enabled Dropbox setting that, by default, shares data with OpenAI for an experimental AI-powered search feature. Dropbox responded, clarifying that user files are only sent to a third-party AI when users interact with AI-powered features. However, the fact that this setting was enabled by default has caused some consternation among users.

Drew Houston, Dropbox's CEO, addressed the issue Wednesday afternoon, apologizing for any confusion caused. He stated, “The third-party AI toggle in the settings menu enables or disables access to DBX AI features and functionality. Neither this nor any other setting automatically or passively sends any Dropbox customer data to a third-party AI service.” Houston further acknowledged the confusion was Dropbox's responsibility and pledged to make the settings more transparent.

This incident is not an isolated one, as other companies have previously faced scrutiny for transferring user data to AI firms. It comes just two months after Dropbox announced its AI-Powered search feature.