Vienna-based privacy campaign group NOYB announced on Monday its intention to file a complaint against ChatGPT in Austria. The group claimed that the flagship AI tool produced incorrect answers and that its creator, OpenAI, was unable to correct these inaccuracies.
NOYB highlighted the importance of ensuring that information about individuals is accurate according to EU law. The group insisted that if a system cannot produce accurate and transparent results, it should not be utilized to generate data about individuals. NOYB’s data-protection lawyer, Maartje de Graaf, emphasized the importance of technology complying with legal requirements.
The campaign group cited instances where ChatGPT provided incorrect information about the birth date of NOYB founder, Max Schrems. Despite requests for OpenAI to rectify or erase the incorrect data, the company refused, claiming it was impossible. NOYB also noted that OpenAI failed to respond adequately to Schrems’ requests to access his personal data, violating EU law.
Since its introduction in November 2022, ChatGPT has attracted attention for its impressive capabilities. However, the technology has faced criticism and legal action in various countries. Italy temporarily blocked the program, and France’s regulatory authority launched an investigation in response to complaints. NOYB has raised concerns about the regulation of AI by authorities and is pushing for OpenAI to be fined to ensure compliance with EU law.
In recent years there has been increasing scrutiny on how technology companies handle personal data of their users. There have been several high-profile cases where companies have been found guilty of breaching data protection laws and fined millions of dollars as a result.
NOYB argues that there needs to be greater regulation and oversight of technology companies when it comes to handling personal data. They believe that companies must be held accountable for any errors or violations they make when processing personal information.
OpenAI has yet to respond publicly on this matter but will likely face significant pressure from regulators and privacy advocates alike.
As AI continues to become more prevalent in our daily lives it will be crucial for governments and regulatory bodies around the world to work together towards establishing clear guidelines and regulations on how these technologies are used and governed.
