I Built a Tool That Detects AI Training — And I Need Your Help.
Source: Dev.to
So… I built something: a small browser extension that tells you when a website you’re visiting might be using your data to train AI models. It’s not dramatic, but I’d love your help making it better.
Why I Built WTOM
Many platforms are clear about how they use user data—artists, writers, photographers, developers. Yet there’s no easy way for an average user to check who’s training on their data. I wanted a tool that gives users clarity rather than fear.
What WTOM Is
WTOM (WhoTrainedOnMe) is a browser extension for Chrome, Chromium‑based browsers, and Firefox. When you visit a site, WTOM checks if that platform:
- Trains AI on user data
- Has an unclear AI policy
- Uses your data in ways you didn’t expect or that feel suspicious
If any of these apply, the extension notifies you.
How WTOM Works (A Lot of Manual Research)
- Read privacy policies – I review each site’s terms and privacy documentation.
- Assign a rule – Every website gets a rule based on:
- AI training status
- Transparency level
- Opt‑out method
- Available contact or protest channels
- Overall behavior
This research is time‑consuming but essential. WTOM’s accuracy is directly tied to the quality of this manual work, which is why I need community help.
I Need Your Help: Report Websites
WTOM now includes a simple reporting feature. If you encounter a site that:
- Trains AI on user data
- Has an unclear AI policy
- Uses your data in unexpected or suspicious ways
you can report it directly from the extension. Reports are sent to me anonymously, after which I investigate the site and, if warranted, add it to the database. This crowdsourced feedback is the only way WTOM can grow and stay up‑to‑date.
Get WTOM
WTOM is officially available for:
- Chrome + all Chromium browsers – Check it here
- Firefox – Check it here
If you care about AI transparency, data consent, or simply want to understand what the internet is doing behind the scenes, please give WTOM a try and help improve it.