Clarification on Training Restriction Clause in GCP Terms

[msamo]

Hi,

I’ve been reviewing the Service-Specific Terms for Google Cloud Platform (GCP), particularly section 17: Training Restriction, which states:

"Google will not use Customer Data to train or fine-tune any AI/ML models without Customer's prior permission or instruction."

I want to ensure that my data is handled as per my preferences, but I’m unclear about a few points:

1. How can I verify whether I’ve granted permission for my data to be used for AI/ML training?
2. Are there any settings or agreements in the GCP Console that explicitly show whether this permission is enabled or disabled?
3. If no explicit action was taken on my part, is it safe to assume this permission is off by default?

Thanks

[MarvinLlamas · Accepted solution]

Hi @msamo,

Welcome to Google Cloud Community!

The quoted message, "Google will not use Customer Data to train or fine-tune any AI/ML models without Customer's prior permission or instruction." is a key commitment from Google to protect your data.

Here are potential ways that might help with your use case:

• Verifying granted permission: Google requires your affirmative action, meaning you must actively opt-in, before using your data for model training they do not include your data by default. There isn't a single, global AI/ML training permission switch in the GCP Console; instead, permissions are specific to individual features or services, allowing for granular control. Furthermore, if Google intends to use your data for AI/ML training, you will encounter explicit consent dialogues or agreements during the setup or configuration of the particular feature or service.
• Cloud console configuration: Settings or agreements related to AI/ML training permissions in Google Cloud Platform are embedded within the configuration of specific services or features you're using. 
• Default access permission: The training restriction clause ensures your data is not used for AI/ML model training without explicit permission. If you have not taken the affirmative action described in section 1, you can safely assume that your data is not being used by Google for training purposes. Google emphasizes that it requires "prior permission or instruction" for any such usage and takes this seriously. Without your active opt-in, Google's AI/ML models will not utilize your customer data.

You may refer to the documentation below, which offers pertinent information on Google Cloud’s terms of service and service user data policies:

• Verification requirements

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