ALBAWABA - Meta recently sparked privacy concerns among internet users after reports revealed that the American tech giant was granted a patent for an AI system that can take over a user's social media account and even control it after their death.
According to Dexerto, the AI system can replicate the user's online behavior by using past data and mimic it through posts, voice messages, likes, and chats. The patent, filed in 2023 and granted in December 2025, states that the data "may be used for simulating the user when the user is absent from the social networking system," including if the user is on a long hiatus or dead.
The patent adds that "The impact on the users is much more severe and permanent if that user is deceased and can never return to the social networking platform."
Meta patents terrifying AI that can control your account after death
The patent was designed with Meta applications in mind, including Facebook and Instagram. This triggered privacy concerns among internet users as both platforms are used daily by billions globally. Others described it as "creepy" and "eerie."
A concerned social media user wrote on X (formerly Twitter), "For everyone saying just don't use it, that ignores that YOU might be on the receiving end without knowing. Imagine finding out months later that your friend who died was actually an AI chatbot. This isn't about personal choice when it affects everyone in someone's network."
Another wrote, "Just imagine what dark stuff they're quietly planning & executing behind the scenes... ready to unleash every dirty trick when the time comes."
According to Business Insider, Meta's CTO Andrew Bosworth is listed as the primary author of the controversial patent. However, a spokesperson revealed that they "have no plans to move forward with this example."
Business Insider claims that the patent also allows the AI system to "simulate" video and audio calls.
