Link: A proposed class action lawsuit accuses Otter.ai of "deceptively and surreptitiously" recording private conversations to train its AI without user consent (Bobby Allyn/NPR)

Otter.ai, based in Mountain View, Calif., is accused of secretly recording private conversations to enhance its AI transcription tools, according to a federal class-action lawsuit. The lawsuit claims these actions violate privacy and wiretap laws by not obtaining necessary permissions.

Justin Brewer, the plaintiff, alleges that Otter.ai recorded a confidential discussion without his consent, severely invading his privacy. The suit, representing potentially affected Californians, argues that recordings are used for profit.

Despite Otter.ai's privacy policy stating that it obtains explicit permission for AI training, the lawsuit maintains that users are deceived. Otter’s application, as described, does not routinely ask all meeting participants for recording consent.

Concerns have escalated as Otter.ai’s usage has grown in workplaces globally, sparking debates about privacy rights. The technology has been involved in several incidents where recorded data was mishandled, affecting business deals and raising security concerns.

Users on platforms like Reddit have reported unintended recordings linked to Otter.ai’s integration with workplace calendars. These recordings occur without explicit attendee consent, enhancing fears over data privacy.

The lawsuit also critiques Otter's data anonymization process, claiming it fails to ensure confidentiality or anonymity in its recordings. This has led to broader privacy concerns among users and observers alike. #

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Yoooo, this is a quick note on a link that made me go, WTF? Find all past links here.