Privacy advocates fret over Meta image tool that works on public accounts

Published July 9, 2026 5:32pm ET | Updated July 9, 2026 6:32pm ET



Meta‘s new artificial intelligence image-generation technology allows users to modify pictures on public accounts to create new images, sparking criticism among tech analysts and users.

Users can manipulate and edit images from any public Instagram account, including profile pictures, unless the user changes a setting available only in the Instagram app under the “Sharing and reuse” tab in the settings menu.

Already a print subscriber? Click here to login/register your account

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.