How to opt out of Meta AI using your Instagram pictures

By , July 10, 2026

Meta introduced a new feature that allows people to create AI-generated images using content from public Instagram profiles. If you have a public account and you do not want your photos to be used this way, you will need to change your settings manually. The feature is enabled by default for eligible public adult accounts, so opting out requires a few simple steps.

Step 1: Open the settings menu

Tap the three horizontal lines in the top right corner of your profile. This opens the Settings and activity menu, where Instagram stores all account and privacy controls.

Step 2: Find the sharing and reuse section

Scroll down until you see Sharing and reuse. Tap it to access settings that control how other people can use your content across Instagram and Meta’s AI features.

Step 3: Turn off AI content reuse

Look for the option labelled Allow people to create with and reuse your content on Instagram and with AI features at Meta.

Open this section and switch off the options for both Posts and Reels. Once these settings are turned off, your public posts and reels will no longer be available for people to use when creating AI-generated images through Meta’s tools.

Keep in mind that Meta says this change only applies going forward. It does not automatically remove AI images that may have been created before you opted out.

Step 4: Consider making your account private

If you only use Instagram to share photos with friends and family, changing your account from public to private offers an extra layer of protection.

To do this, return to Settings and activity, tap Account privacy, then switch on Private account. Only people you approve will be able to see your posts, and private accounts are not included in this AI feature.

Step 5: Review your privacy settings regularly

Instagram frequently introduces new tools and updates, and new privacy options may appear over time. It is worth checking your settings every few months to make sure you are still comfortable with how your photos, videos, and personal information can be used.

Taking a few minutes to review these settings can help you stay in control of your online presence as Meta continues expanding its artificial intelligence features.

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