Perplexity AI Faces Class-Action Over Secret Data Sharing with Meta-Google

Perplexity AI faced a class-action lawsuit accusing it of secretly routing sensitive user data to Meta and Google via hidden trackers.

“Perplexity’s AI search engine encourages users to go deeper with their prompts by engaging in chat sessions that a lawsuit has alleged are often shared in their entirety with Google and Meta without users’ knowledge or consent”

Ars Technica

Users' private conversations were accessed even in Incognito mode, which the lawsuit calls a sham.

Ars Technica

The lawsuit was filed by a Utah man who shared highly sensitive information that was then transmitted to the tech giants.

Perplexity stated it had not been served and could not verify the claims.

Opening prompts are always shared, as are any follow-up questions a user clicks on.

Privacy concerns are worse for non-subscribed users whose initial prompts are shared with a URL accessible by third parties.

Clubic

Chats are also shared with personally identifiable information even when using Incognito Mode.

Perplexity’s private browsing claims were contradicted by evidence.

The plaintiff shared highly sensitive data that users assume stays private.

“Your midnight queries about refinancing”

Gadget Review

The trackers give Meta and Google full access for advertising exploitation and data resale.

The lawsuit accuses all three companies of violating privacy and fraud laws.

Meta pointed to its Facebook help page stating sending sensitive information violates policies.

Perplexity labeled the lawsuit an anonymous and mischaracterized complaint.

Meta called it an attempt to score cheap political points.

Lapaas Voice

The Amazon lawsuit adds context to the startup's concurrent legal troubles.

Technologies designed to appear private may not deliver true confidentiality.