Anthropic has updated its Consumer Terms and Privacy Policy for Claude, giving users more control over whether their data is used to train future AI models.
The changes, which take effect immediately for those who accept them, apply to users on Claude Free, Pro, and Max plans, including when using Claude Code. They do not apply to Claude for Work, Claude Gov, Claude for Education, or API use through partners such as Amazon Bedrock and Google Cloud’s Vertex AI.
Data sharing for model improvement
Users can now choose whether their chats and coding sessions are used to improve Claude’s performance. The company said data collected in this way would help enhance safety features against misuse, such as scams and abuse, and support improvements in areas like coding and reasoning.
Existing users will see an in-app notification prompting them to make a selection by 28 September 2025. New users will set their preference during the signup process. The option can be changed at any time in Privacy Settings.
A spokesperson for Anthropic said: “Real-world interactions provide valuable signals that help improve Claude’s accuracy and usefulness. Users remain in full control of whether their data contributes to this process.”
Extended data retention
For those who opt in, Anthropic will extend data retention from 30 days to five years for new or resumed chats, coding sessions, and user feedback. The company said the longer period would improve model consistency and strengthen classifiers designed to detect harmful content.
Conversations deleted by the user will not be used for training, and data will not be sold to third parties.
The update reflects a broader trend in the artificial intelligence sector, where developers seek to balance model improvement with growing regulatory and consumer scrutiny over data use. Rivals such as OpenAI and Google have also introduced new privacy options in recent years, offering users more transparency and control.
Users must accept the revised terms and make a decision on model training settings by 28 September to continue using Claude. Those who opt out will continue with the current 30-day retention policy.
