OpenAI Addresses Italian Regulators’ Concerns and Implements Changes to Protect User Privacy
OpenAI has announced that its ChatGPT service is once again available to users in Italy after implementing changes to satisfy regulatory requirements. ChatGPT was accused by the Italian Data Protection Authority (GPDP) of collecting user data unlawfully and failing to prevent underage users from accessing inappropriate content. Consequently, OpenAI had to block the service in Italy.
In a statement published by The Associated Press , OpenAI stated that it had “addressed or clarified” the issues raised by the GPDP. The company has welcomed back Italian users and has reiterated its commitment to protecting their privacy.
Addressing the Issues Raised by the GPDP
Regulators had given OpenAI 20 days to resolve the issues highlighted by the GPDP. In mid-April, they stated that ChatGPT could be reinstated in Italy if the problems were addressed by April 30th. OpenAI has implemented several changes, including linking a new form that enables EU users to delete their personal data as per GDPR regulations. Additionally, a new tool has been introduced to verify users’ ages during sign-up in Italy.
In addition, OpenAI has published a help center article outlining how it and ChatGPT collect personal information. This includes information about how to contact its GDPR-mandated data protection officer.
GPDP Response
The GPDP has responded positively to the changes made by OpenAI, stating in a statement published by AP that it “welcomes the measures OpenAI implemented”. However, it has also urged OpenAI to comply with further age verification changes and a publicity campaign to inform Italians about their right to opt-out of data gathering.
Future Challenges for OpenAI
Although these changes do not appear to drastically alter how ChatGPT operates in Italy, OpenAI may face further challenges in other countries. Several countries, such as Spain and Canada, have either initiated or are contemplating investigations into OpenAI’s practices. These investigations aim to scrutinize the company’s methods of collecting training data for its vast language model and the kind of information the model produces for its users. Moreover, European lawmakers are advancing the AI Act, which could add additional requirements for companies like OpenAI – potentially involving significant new information disclosures.
In conclusion, OpenAI has restored access to its ChatGPT service in Italy following changes made to address concerns raised by the Italian Data Protection Authority. OpenAI has implemented new tools and measures to protect user privacy, including a new form for users to remove personal data and a new age verification tool. While the GPDP has welcomed these measures, it has also called for further changes, and OpenAI may face further regulatory challenges in other countries.
With the AI Act advancing in Europe, companies like OpenAI could face significant new information disclosures in the future. Nevertheless, the restoration of ChatGPT access in Italy marks a positive step forward for the company and its commitment to protecting user privacy.
