Adobe Terms of Use update raises privacy concerns

Image: Adobe

Many Adobe Creative Cloud users were surprised by a recent update to the Terms of Use (TOU) that requires them to agree before accessing their applications. While Adobe assures users that their practices haven't changed, the new wording sparked concerns about privacy and data access.

The update clarifies situations where Adobe can access user content, but the language is broad and lacks transparency. Users worry that Adobe can now access and analyze all their work files, potentially violating confidentiality agreements and raising privacy issues.

According to Adobe, the access they request is limited to operating and improving their software and services, enforcing legal compliance, and content moderation. This includes functionalities like file sharing, previews, and AI-powered features. The company insists they don't access files stored locally on user devices.

Despite the clarification, some questions remain unanswered. Users are unsure about:

• Alternatives to accepting the TOU: Is there a way to use the software without accepting the new terms?
• Cloud vs. local storage: Does the access apply only to cloud-stored files or local ones as well?
• AI training: While Adobe denies using user content for AI training, the broad wording leaves room for doubt.

Adobe acknowledges the confusion caused by the update and promises to improve the clarity of the TOU acceptance process. They've also published a blog post explaining the purpose of the update and how it affects user data.

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