WeTransfer’s AI Terms Update: What Creatives Need to Know

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WeTransfer Responds to User Concerns

Following feedback from the creative community, WeTransfer has acted swiftly to remove all references to machine learning from its terms of service, aiming to eliminate confusion and reassure users.

What Happened?

Recent changes to WeTransfer’s terms of service sparked concern among creatives, particularly those working with sensitive or copyright-protected content. The update initially suggested that content uploaded to the platform could be used to train AI models—raising red flags across the design and publishing industries.

WeTransfer users were notified of updated terms that included a clause granting the platform a licence to use uploaded content for “operating, developing, and improving” its services. This included a reference to machine learning, which many interpreted as a green light for using user content to train AI systems.

The backlash was swift. As highlighted in PG Buzz’s coverage, industry voices like Jennie Rutter of Emotional Rescue expressed serious concerns about the implications for artists and publishers. McDaniels Law have had a look into the issue on behalf of the greeting card industry.

Legal Insight from McDaniels Law

Anna King from McDaniels Law reviewed the updated terms and provided the following key insights:

  • Intent of the Terms – WeTransfer’s stated intent was to secure a licence to user content solely to operate and improve the platform. According to Anna, no practical changes in how content is handled were intended
  • Machine Learning Reference – The original mention of machine learning was related to a potential future feature aimed at improving moderation and preventing the distribution of harmful or illegal content. This feature has not been built or used
  • Clarification and Removal – In response to user concerns, WeTransfer has now removed all references to machine learning from its terms to avoid confusion
  • Content Ownership – Users retain full ownership of their content (as outlined in Section 6.2) but grant WeTransfer a broad licence (Section 6.3) to use it for platform operation and development, in line with its Privacy & Cookie Policy
  • Comparison with Other Platforms: Anna also noted that other platforms like ChatGPT and Grok include similar licensing terms, and users should be aware of opt-out options or avoid uploading sensitive content if concerned
  • Alternative Options – Smash, a similar file-sharing platform, does not include comparable machine learning provisions, making it a potentially safer alternative for creatives. 

WeTransfer’s Official Response

According to The Guardian, a WeTransfer spokesperson stated that the updated terms—released on 15 July and set to take effect on 8 August—were intended to make the language clearer and more accessible. They confirmed:

  • User content has never been used, even internally, to test or develop AI models
  • The company is not currently considering any specific AI technologies
  • There is no change in how WeTransfer handles user content in practice

What you can do to protect your files

  • Review the terms of any platform you use to share or store creative work
  • Opt out of AI training where possible (e.g., in your ChatGPT settings)
  • Stay informed—terms can change quickly, and it’s worth checking in regularly

If you have questions or concerns about how your content is being used, you can contact McDaniels Law at legal@mcdanielslaw.com or call 0191 281 4000.

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