What teens and parents need to know about AI, digital footprints, and protecting personal images

Recently, Meta introduced a new AI image feature called Muse Image, which allowed users to create AI-generated images using photos from public Instagram accounts. The feature quickly received attention after users and privacy advocates raised concerns about how people’s images could be used.

Following the feedback, Meta removed the feature that allowed users to reference public Instagram profiles when creating AI-generated images.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a bigger part of everyday technology. From creating images and editing videos to helping people write and design content, AI tools are changing how people interact online.

But as these tools become more advanced, questions about privacy, consent, and personal information are becoming more common.

AI Cloning and the Question of Digital Identity

The conversation around AI and personal images is not only affecting social media users. It has also become a concern for public figures whose voices and appearances can be recreated using AI.

Actress Scarlett Johansson became one of the most recognized examples after raising concerns about AI-generated content involving her likeness.

In 2024, Johansson publicly criticized OpenAI after the company introduced a chatbot voice called “Sky,” which she said sounded similar to her own voice. OpenAI later paused the voice while addressing the concerns.

Johansson has also taken legal action in separate cases involving the unauthorized use of her likeness in advertising.

These examples have brought more attention to a growing conversation around AI: how people’s faces, voices, and identities should be protected as technology becomes more advanced.

AI tools can be used for many positive purposes, including creative projects, entertainment, and accessibility. However, these technologies also raise questions about permission and how personal information is used.

What Was Meta’s Muse Image Feature?

Muse Image was created as a tool to help users make AI-generated images. One part of the feature allowed users to enter a public Instagram username as a reference when creating a new image.

This meant that photos from a public account could be used as inspiration for an AI-generated image.

Meta said the goal was to provide users with a new creative tool. However, many people questioned whether users should have more control over how their photos are used when AI technology is involved.

The discussion brought attention to a larger question surrounding AI: how can companies create new technology while also respecting people’s privacy?

Why Did People Raise Privacy Concerns?

One of the biggest concerns surrounding the feature was consent.

Many people share photos online as a way to connect with friends, express themselves, or document important moments. However, some users may not realize that publicly shared content can sometimes be used in ways they did not expect.

When AI tools can create new images using existing photos, questions about ownership and permission become more important.

For teens especially, this conversation connects to the idea of a digital footprint, the information people leave behind online, including photos, videos, comments, and posts.

A photo posted today may continue to exist online long after it was first shared, which is why understanding privacy settings and online choices is important.

Meta Responds to Feedback

After receiving criticism, Meta removed the feature that allowed users to create images based on public Instagram profiles.

In a statement, Meta said:

“We’ve heard the feedback that this feature missed the mark, so it’s no longer available.”

The company also explained that its goal was to create a tool that gave users new creative options.

“Our intent was to provide a useful creative tool and to give people control over whether their public content could be referenced in this way.”

Although the Instagram reference feature was removed, AI image technology continues to develop across social media platforms.

How AI Watermarks Help Identify AI Images

To help users recognize AI-generated content, Meta added an invisible watermark system called Content Seal to images created with Muse Image.

An invisible watermark is a hidden marker added to a digital file that can help show whether an image was created using AI.

This type of technology can help people identify AI-generated content, but it does not prevent an image from being created. It also does not answer questions about whether someone’s face or personal images were used with permission.

As AI tools continue to improve, conversations around transparency and consent are becoming an important part of how companies develop new technology.

Why This Matters for Teens and Parents

For many teens, sharing photos and videos online is a normal part of everyday life. Social media allows young people to express themselves, connect with others, and share experiences.

However, as AI becomes more common, it is important to understand how online content can be used.

AI tools can create new images, videos, and audio using existing content. This makes digital privacy and understanding online settings more important than ever.

For teens, this is a reminder to think carefully about what they share publicly and who can access their content.

For parents, this can be an opportunity to have conversations with teens about AI, privacy, and making informed choices online.

Families can ask questions such as:

  • Who can see my posts?
  • What information am I comfortable sharing online?
  • Do I understand how this app uses my content?
  • Would I be okay if this image were used in another way?

Learning about AI does not mean avoiding new technology. Instead, understanding how these tools work can help young people use them responsibly.

Simple Ways to Protect Your Privacy Online

As AI continues to become part of social media, small steps can help protect personal information.

Check your privacy settings

Review whether your accounts are public or private and understand who can view your posts.

Think before you share

Consider what information you are comfortable making available online.

Learn about new AI features

Before using a new tool, take time to understand what information it uses and how it works.

Talk about online safety

Parents and teens can have conversations about digital privacy and responsible technology use.

The Future of AI and Online Privacy

AI technology is continuing to change how people create, communicate, and share information online.

The discussion surrounding Meta’s Muse Image feature shows why understanding new technology is important. As AI becomes more common, knowing how personal images and information are used can help teens and families make informed decisions about their digital lives.