OpenAI blocked ChatGPT in Italy on order of the data protection authority. Regulators launched an investigation citing potential GDPR violations. OpenAI disabled access, issued refunds, and paused subscription renewals. But compliance with GDPR and privacy laws is now in question, and severe penalties may follow. This article will examine the Garante’s GDPR concerns and OpenAI’s ChatGPT geoblocking in Italy.
Lack of Transparency in Data Processing
The Garante is investigating OpenAI for potential violations of GDPR due to its lack of transparency in data processing practices. OpenAI did not disclose which users’ data was used to train ChatGPT, nor the information it processes. Although the training data may have been publicly available, GDPR mandates transparency principles. OpenAI ought to have informed users and individuals whose data was scraped.
Child Safety Concerns
Another GDPR compliance issue raised by the Garante is OpenAI’s lack of a system to prevent minors from accessing ChatGPT. There is no age verification feature to prevent inappropriate access, which is concerning from a child safety perspective.
Accuracy of Information Provided by ChatGPT
The Garante has also raised concerns over the accuracy of the information provided by ChatGPT. Generative AI chatbots are known to sometimes produce erroneous information about named individuals, which AI makers refer to as “hallucinating.” The GDPR provides individuals with a right to rectification of erroneous information. It’s unclear if OpenAI has a system for users to request the chatbot stop lying about them.
OpenAI’s Response and Future Implications
OpenAI claims to protect people’s privacy and follow GDPR and privacy laws, but it’s unclear how they will address Garante’s concerns. Garante has launched an investigation with a wide scope, and OpenAI faces high GDPR exposure. Other EU authorities may step in too. Non-compliance may lead to severe penalties for OpenAI.
Conclusion
OpenAI’s ChatGPT is under investigation by the Garante for potential GDPR violations in Italy, resulting in geoblocking, refunds, and paused subscriptions. The investigation focuses on OpenAI’s lack of transparency in data processing, child safety concerns, and accuracy of information. This article examines the implications of the investigation and the concerns raised by the Garante. For more on the potential benefits and drawbacks of brain chips, check out our previous post on the topic.