Italy Becomes First Western Country to Ban Advanced Chatbot ChatGPT Over Privacy Concerns
Italy has made history by becoming the first Western country to block the advanced chatbot known as ChatGPT. The Italian data-protection authority raised concerns about the model, which was developed by US start-up OpenAI and is backed by Microsoft. The regulator has announced an immediate ban on the chatbot and will conduct an investigation into OpenAI’s practices.
ChatGPT, which was launched in November 2022, has gained popularity among millions of users. It has the ability to provide human-like responses to questions and can mimic different writing styles by using the internet as its database from 2021. Microsoft has invested billions of dollars into ChatGPT and recently integrated it into Bing. The company also has plans to embed a version of the technology in its Office apps such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
The ban on ChatGPT is a result of growing concerns over the risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI). These concerns include the potential impact on jobs, the spread of misinformation, and the presence of biases. Tech leaders, including Elon Musk, have called for a suspension of these AI systems due to fears that their development is spiraling out of control.
The Italian data-protection authority has not only banned ChatGPT but also intends to investigate OpenAI’s compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). GDPR governs the usage, processing, and storage of personal data. The regulator revealed that the app experienced a data breach involving user conversations and payment information. It also raised concerns about the lack of verification regarding the age of users and the exposure of minors to unsuitable content.
Bard, Google’s AI chatbot rival, is now only accessible to users aged 18 and above due to similar concerns.
OpenAI has been given 20 days to address the concerns raised by the Italian watchdog, with the possibility of facing a fine of €20 million or up to 4% of annual revenues. The Irish data protection commission has stated that it will coordinate with other EU data protection authorities in relation to the ban.
The UK’s independent data regulator, the Information Commissioner’s Office, expressed its support for AI development but also emphasized the need for compliance with data protection laws. The ban on ChatGPT highlights the importance of regulatory compliance for businesses operating in Europe.
Consumer advocacy group BEUC has called on EU and national authorities to investigate ChatGPT and similar chatbots, following a complaint filed in the US. BEUC believes that the world’s first legislation on AI, currently being developed by the EU, may take years to become effective, leaving consumers at risk.
OpenAI has disabled ChatGPT for users in Italy at the request of the Italian data protection regulator, but the organization remains committed to protecting privacy and complying with GDPR. OpenAI looks forward to working closely with the regulator to address the concerns raised and make ChatGPT available in Italy again soon.
In conclusion, Italy’s ban on advanced chatbot ChatGPT over privacy concerns marks a significant development in the regulation of AI systems. With the increasing use of AI and the potential risks associated with it, regulatory compliance and protection of personal data are of utmost importance. The ban raises questions about the future of AI and the need for greater scrutiny and control over these systems to safeguard users.
