OpenAI’s latest Ghibli-style AI image generator has taken social media by storm, with people enthusiastically transforming their photos into artworks inspired by Hayao Miyazaki’s signature style. From celebrities and politicians to everyday users, countless individuals have joined the trend, sharing their AI-generated portraits. The tool even allows users to convert viral memes into stunning Ghibli-style illustrations.
However, not everyone is embracing the craze. Privacy advocates on X have raised concerns, suggesting OpenAI may be using this trend to collect a vast number of personal images for AI training. While users enjoy the creative possibilities, critics warn they might be unknowingly providing OpenAI with fresh facial data, raising serious questions about digital privacy.
Ethical Concerns Surrounding AI-Generated Art
This trend has reignited debates about AI tools trained on copyrighted content and the impact on human artists. Miyazaki, known for his intricate hand-drawn animation and imaginative storytelling, has expressed skepticism about AI’s role in the animation industry. However, privacy activists argue that OpenAI’s data collection practices go beyond copyright concerns, potentially allowing the company to gather voluntarily submitted images while sidestepping legal restrictions on web-scraped data.
Under GDPR, OpenAI must justify image collection under the principle of “legitimate interest,” which requires additional safeguards to protect user privacy. These safeguards ensure that data collection is necessary, does not override individuals’ rights, and maintains transparency.
AI Privacy Experts Sound the Alarm
In a detailed post on X, Luiza Jarovsky, co-founder of the AI, Tech & Privacy Academy, explained the legal loophole OpenAI might be using.
“When people voluntarily upload these images, they give their consent to OpenAI to process them (Article 6.1.a of the GDPR). This is a different legal ground that gives more freedom to OpenAI, and the legitimate interest balancing test no longer applies,” she wrote.
🚨 Most people haven't realized that the Ghibli Effect is not only an AI copyright controversy but also OpenAI's PR trick to get access to thousands of new personal images; here's how:
— Luiza Jarovsky (@LuizaJarovsky) March 29, 2025
To get their own Ghibli (or Sesame Street) version, thousands of people are now voluntarily… pic.twitter.com/zBktscNOSh
She further highlighted that OpenAI’s privacy policy states it collects user-submitted data for training its AI models unless users actively opt out.
According to Jarovsky, OpenAI gains direct access to original personal images, unlike social media platforms and rival AI companies, which only see the altered, “Ghiblified” versions.
How to Safeguard Your Biometric Data
Before jumping onto the latest AI-generated image trend, it’s crucial to consider potential risks. Here are some key steps to protect your privacy:
- Think twice before uploading personal photos to AI platforms.
- Avoid posting high-resolution images online, as they can be used for AI training.
- Use passwords or PINs instead of facial recognition for device security.
- Regularly check app permissions to limit camera access.
While AI-powered creativity offers exciting possibilities, users should remain cautious about the potential implications of sharing their biometric data online.
