Meta's Muse Image AI Allows Use of Public Instagram Photos, Sparks Privacy Outcry

Meta introduced Muse Image, an artificial‑intelligence model integrated with Instagram that can generate new images by scanning publicly posted photos of any public Instagram profile that is tagged in a prompt. The feature operates by default unless the user manually disables it in their settings, and no notification is sent when an image is created using someone’s photos. Meta says the tool can be used for personalized graphics such as invitations or illustrations, but privacy experts warn it enables deep‑fake creation, unwanted political or commercial portrayal, and potential sexualized misuse of images of family members, children and friends.

In response to intense public backlash and concerns raised by cybersecurity specialists, Meta announced the removal of the Muse Image option only three days after its launch, stating the project had "missed the mark" and posed significant privacy risks. Separate reports note that Meta is also planning a subscription model for broader AI tools on Instagram, citing the high operational costs of running large‑scale generative models.

The rollout began in the United States and selected countries, with Italy listed among the early destinations before a global release.