Asking Eric: I found out they used my photo for this AI nonsense - The Mercury News

What the report says

The Mercury News published an “Asking Eric” advice column by R. Eric Thomas on July 24, 2026, focused primarily on a reader’s discomfort with relatives uploading group photos that included the reader into artificial intelligence tools to create humorous altered images. The reader, who said they avoid social media and worry especially about images of their children, asked how to set a boundary without sounding judgmental toward friends and family who use AI casually.

Thomas advised the reader that, because social norms around AI image use are still developing, it is reasonable to have proactive conversations with relatives and friends. He suggested a simple explanation that the reader does not want images of themselves or their family uploaded to AI services, while acknowledging that others may find the technology interesting. He also noted that the reader may not need to contact every person they know, since the situation may arise only occasionally.

The column also addressed two other reader questions. One asked how to respond to a spouse’s heavy perfume use; Thomas recommended distinguishing between personal preference and a physical reaction, such as sinus irritation or headaches, and framing any request around the questioner’s own experience. Another reader followed up on earlier workplace advice, suggesting that an employee facing health-related support issues could seek help from a trusted person or an HR consultant, in addition to a lawyer, if their workplace lacks a human resources professional.

The AI question reflects broader public unease over personal images being used in generative tools, including concerns about consent, privacy and misuse, though the column itself offered personal-boundary advice rather than legal guidance.