# Meta Removes 'Train' From Terms But Keeps Broad Scraping Permissions

> Meta revised terms to remove 'train' but still permits broad scraping of websites for AI training.
- Title: Meta Removes 'Train' From Terms But Keeps Broad Scraping…
- Summary: Meta revised terms to remove 'train' but still permits broad scraping of websites for AI training. Meta's updated terms allow scraping news sites for AI…
- Keywords: meta, robots.txt, ai training, terms of service, web scraping, news publishers, meta business accounts, ad creative generative ai, technology, startups, Removes, 'Train'
- Source: Nieman Lab — https://niemanlab.org/2026/10/legal-experts-warn-metas-new-terms-still-grant-broad-scraping-permissions-despite-language-changes
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: meta, robots.txt, ai training, terms of service, web scraping, news publishers, meta business accounts, ad creative generative ai, technology, startups
## Meta revises terms
Meta removed the word 'train' from its upcoming terms of service for business accounts.
## Terms permit broad scraping
The revised terms still allow broad scraping of websites, potentially superseding robots.txt files.
## Meta spokesperson explains
Meta said the revision was because robots.txt preferences weren't clear in initial terms consolidation.
## Legal experts warn
Legal experts say the revised terms still allow meta to use scraped content for ai development.
## Meta's business accounts
Virtually every news organization has at least one meta business account for managing social media.
## Terms text change
The revised terms allow scraping for advertising and business products but not specific ai training.
## Legal concerns
Legal experts say the terms are too broad and don't address scraping concerns.
## Publishers react
News organizations call the terms 'outrageous' and demand government intervention.
## Terms effective date
The new terms go into effect on october 30 with no opt-out option for business accounts.
## Key takeaway

Meta's updated terms allow scraping news sites for AI development despite removing 'train' from language.