If you don't opt out by Apr 24 GitHub will train on your private repos

Article summary

GitHub will start training its Copilot AI model on users' private repositories unless they opt out by April 24. The opt-out option is available in the GitHub settings. This change has raised concerns among users who do not want their private code to be used for training AI models. The notice about this change has been displayed on GitHub's website and sent via email to users.

Main themes

• GitHub Copilot
• Private repository data
• AI training
• User consent
• Data privacy
• Alternative platforms

What commenters say

• GitHub's decision to automatically opt users into allowing their private repositories to be used for AI training is seen as a violation of user trust and an overreach of the company's data collection policies.
• Some users argue that the notice about the change is not sufficient and that GitHub should have explicitly asked for permission instead of requiring users to opt out.
• Others believe that users who need private repositories should consider paid or self-hosted options to ensure their data is protected.
• The decision has led some users to consider alternative platforms, such as GitLab or self-hosted solutions, that offer more control over data privacy and usage.
• Some commenters argue that the way GitHub and other companies phrase questions and requests can be seen as coercive or manipulative, using dark patterns to wear down users into accepting certain terms or conditions.
• There is a concern that the use of private repository data for AI training could potentially lead to the creation of malicious code, such as viruses or malware.
• A few commenters suggest that encryption and local hosting of code could be a solution to prevent companies from accessing and using private repository data for AI training.
• Some users feel that big tech companies, including GitHub, have a lack of respect for user autonomy and privacy, and that this decision is just one example of a larger trend.