Meta Disputes Claim That Muse Read User's Private Messages Without Permission
Meta’s Muse app for Mac requires explicit opt‑in permissions, including Full Disk Access and a Messages connector, before it can read user messages.
In Brief
- •Meta’s Muse app for Mac requires explicit opt‑in permissions, including Full Disk Access and a Messages connector, before it can read user messages.
- •Inc. columnist Jason Aten reported that Muse accessed his messages while Full Disk Access was disabled, a claim Meta denies.
- •Meta’s VP of Communications Andy Stone and Superintelligence Labs executive David Singleton explained the three‑step permission process that should prevent accidental data access.
- •The incident follows a New Mexico jury ruling that Meta misled users about data practices in a Cambridge Analytica‑related case.
- •Muse remains the top‑ranked AI app on the Mac App Store, but trust issues could affect Meta’s consumer AI prospects.
Why It Matters
The dispute highlights ongoing concerns about AI agents accessing personal data without clear user consent, a key issue for privacy regulators and consumers alike. If users doubt Muse’s data handling, it could erode confidence in Meta’s broader AI strategy and impact its market share in the competitive consumer AI space.
Key Details
- Permission Requirement
- Full Disk Access + Messages connector must be enabled
- Opt‑in Status
- Messages integration is entirely opt‑in
- Inc. Report Claim
- Muse accessed messages with Full Disk Access disabled
- Meta Response
- Denies claim; explains three‑step permission process
- New Mexico Verdict
- Jury found Meta misled users about data practices
Context & Background
Meta’s history of data‑privacy controversies, including the 2018 Cambridge Analytica scandal, has led to lawsuits and FTC fines, setting a backdrop for scrutiny of its new AI products.
Original Reporting & Sources
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