As AI Bot Technology Thrives, EU Groups Warn of Potential Harm to Consumers
The growing advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology has led to the emergence of various AI chatbots like ChatGPT, provided by Microsoft-backed Open AI, that can engage in human-like conversations and create text and images based on prompts. This has prompted concerns from EU consumer protection agencies, with the European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) calling for an investigation into the technology and potential harm to individuals.
BEUC, the umbrella group for 46 consumer organizations from 32 countries, has expressed its concerns to the Network of Consumer Safety Authorities and the Network of Consumer Protection Authorities regarding the potential risks of AI chatbots like ChatGPT. The organization stated that the content generated by these chatbots, that appears true and reliable, often contains factual inaccuracies that can mislead consumers and lead to deceptive advertising. This can pose greater risks to younger consumers and children who are more likely to fall prey to unreliable information.
In light of these risks, BEUC has requested the Consumer Safety Network to investigate the safety risks posed by AI chatbots like ChatGPT and initiate an exchange of information between consumer protection agencies. The organization also urges the European Commission to identify the presence of these AI systems in consumer markets and take necessary actions to prevent consumer harm.
The emergence of these AI chatbots not only poses potential risks to consumers but also raises ethical and moral concerns. As technology continues to advance, it is of utmost importance that necessary measures are taken to ensure the safety and protection of consumers.
