● Covered by 1 source · 1 reportLow impact1 neutral
How to Limit Instagram's Use of Off-Platform Data for AI and Ads
Key points
- Instagram uses off-platform activity for ad and AI personalization.
- A new "Activity from other businesses" control is rolling out.
- This setting is found in Instagram's Account Center.
- It does not stop all data collection or in-app personalization.
Understanding Instagram's Data Use
Instagram utilizes user activity from outside its platform to tailor advertisements and AI recommendations. This means that browsing a product on an external website can lead to an ad for that same product appearing in an Instagram feed. Meta states it does not use phone microphones for this purpose; instead, businesses send information about user interactions on their sites.
Controlling Off-Platform Personalization
To limit this data use, users can adjust a specific setting within Instagram. Meta started rolling out a new "Activity from other businesses" control in July 2026. This control replaces older settings like "Your activity off Meta technologies" and "Activity information from ad partners", determining whether businesses can use data they send to Meta for personalizing ads, Feed content, and AI responses.
Accessing the Setting
Users can find this setting by navigating to their Instagram profile, tapping the three-line menu, and opening Account Center. The option to look for is "Activity from other businesses". Due to a phased rollout by country, some accounts may still see "Ad preferences > Ad settings > Activity information from ad partners" instead. Users should select the option that prevents Meta from using this external activity for personalization.
Limitations of the Control
It is important to note that this setting does not stop businesses from sending data to Meta, nor does it prevent Meta from using activity generated within Instagram itself. Ads can still be personalized based on accounts followed, posts engaged with, searches, ad clicks, profile details, or customer lists provided by advertisers. The control specifically addresses how off-platform activity influences the ad experience, not all ad personalization.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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Reporting from
Instagram users can adjust settings to prevent the platform from using their activity outside the app to personalize ads and AI recommendations. This involves configuring the "Activity from other businesses" control within Instagram's Account Center, which Meta began rolling out in July 2026.