Microsoft Executive Calls AI Scraping “the Largest Theft of Labor in Human History”

A Microsoft executive has characterized the scraping of online content for artificial intelligence training as “the largest theft of labor in human history.” The remark highlights growing criticism from writers, artists, publishers, and other creators who say their work is being used without permission or compensation. AI companies argue that large-scale data collection supports innovation, while critics demand licensing, transparency, and stronger copyright protections. The dispute is likely to shape future rules governing AI development and creative industries worldwide soon.