According to recent research, Consumer protection organizations within the EU have raised concerns about the dangers posed by AI, particularly about generative AI technology like ChatGPT. These concerns highlight the need for immediate action before the EU’s forthcoming AI regulations take effect.
To address the potential risks associated with Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, the European Union (EU) has called for Accelerated Legislation in Europe and the United States. Read more.
Thirteen watchdog organizations specializing in competition, consumer rights, data protection, and product safety have jointly sent letters to their respective national authorities, urging them to investigate the risks posed by generative AI.
The letters emphasize the potential threats of AI, including the dissemination of false medical information, manipulation of individuals, fabrication of news stories, and unauthorized use of personal data acquired from the internet, reported by The News International.
Notably, consumer advocacy groups from various European nations, including Italy, Spain, Sweden, the Netherlands, Greece, and Denmark, have voiced their concerns about the EU’s AI Act, which aims to regulate AI technology. While the act addresses specific issues, its implementation is still years away, leaving consumers vulnerable to inadequately regulated technology that is rapidly advancing.
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To further safeguard consumers, these groups are calling for using existing laws and introducing new legislation to address the potential negative impacts of generative AI. As part of their efforts, consumer advocacy organizations have also appealed to US President Joe Biden, urging him to take necessary measures to protect consumers from potential harms caused by generative AI.
The urgency surrounding AI legislation has grown due to the emergence of new AI models capable of producing text, images, videos, and audio that closely resemble human work. While the EU has been at the forefront of AI regulation, progress is still needed to ensure adequate individual protection.
Authorities have already taken some initial actions. Italy’s privacy watchdog has ordered OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, to temporarily halt the processing of personal user data while investigating a potential data breach.
Additionally, investigations into OpenAI and ChatGPT are underway in France, Spain, and Canada, signalling a growing focus on ensuring compliance and addressing potential risks.
As AI technology continues to evolve and become more ingrained in daily life, the EU and the US face mounting pressure to accelerate the development of comprehensive legislation that effectively safeguards individuals from the potential adverse effects of AI.
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