Meta AI can now use photos from public Instagram accounts to make AI-created images. The change has raised concerns from SAG-AFTRA. The actors’ union is urging users to opt out and protect their image.

SAG-AFTRA spoke out after Meta added its Muse Image model to Instagram. The tool allows people to make images using photos and videos from public accounts.

According to Wired, “All someone has to do is tag your account’s profile in a prompt if it’s public and they can use Meta AI to generate an image using your likeness.”

“Meta now lets anyone use your Instagram photos in AI images without your consent,” SAG-AFTRA wrote on social media.

The union also said it “recommends that members (and all Instagram users) opt OUT of Meta’s new AI image generation tool, Muse Image. Take action to protect your likeness.”

SAG-AFTRA shared steps for users who want to switch off the feature. Users can open Instagram settings and go to the Sharing and reuse section. There, they can turn off options that allow Meta’s AI tools to use their posts and reels.

Meta’s help centre says that “people may be able to create content with your Instagram content using AI features at Meta” when public accounts keep the default settings.

The company also says, “You will not be notified about content created using AI features at Meta.”

The concerns have also drawn support from talent agency CAA. The agency said it had raised the issue directly with Meta.

“No one’s name, image, likeness, voice or creative work should be used by any third party, including AI models, without clear, documented consent,” CAA said.

“True innovation puts creators first: respecting their rights, protecting their livelihoods, and giving them real control, not handing it over to platforms.”