Italy has bans ChatGPT because of unlawful data collection
Italy has imposed a ban on the use of the artificial intelligence (AI) bot ChatGPT, citing OpenAI’s “unlawful collection of personal data.”
OpenAI, which is supported by Microsoft, has been directed by the national privacy regulator to halt the collection of data from Italian users until it rectifies its data collection practices. However, the UK government presently has no intention of prohibiting ChatGPT or other AI platforms.
ChatGPT is already blocked in a number of countries, including China, Iran, North Korea and Russia.
Italy’s Data Protection Authority claims ChatGPT lacks lawful justification for the collection of users’ personal information.
The authority added that OpenAI also has no mechanism in place to stop underage users accessing the service, which “exposes minors to absolutely unsuitable answers compared to their degree of development and self-awareness”.
In February Italy’s data watchdog also banned the San Francisco-based Replika, an AI software that has become notorious for its erotic role play option.
While ChatGPT is still currently accessible in Italy is users use a virtual private network, the Italy authorities have given OpenAI 20 days to stop processing user data in the country entirely.
At the end of this period OpenAI must show the regulator what measures it’s taken to meet the its requirements, and could face fines of up to €20m (£17.8m) if it fails to demonstrate is has adhered to the ruling.
There is a growing movement of individuals and organizations that are resisting the use of AI, citing concerns over the technology’s ability to collect personal data without consent.
These groups argue that AI has the potential to be used for nefarious purposes, such as targeted advertising, political manipulation, or even mass surveillance. In recent years, there have been several high-profile cases of data breaches and misuse of personal data by tech companies, fueling fears about the unchecked power of AI.
Many individuals and advocacy groups are calling for stricter regulations on AI and data collection, as well as increased transparency and accountability from tech companies that use these technologies. These efforts have gained traction in some countries, with governments implementing laws and regulations aimed at protecting citizens’ privacy and data rights.
In response to these concerns, some tech companies have taken steps to improve their data collection practices and increase transparency around the use of AI. However, the resistance to AI and data collection continues to be a topic of debate and concern among many individuals and organizations.
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