ChatGPT Reactivated in Italy after OpenAI Addresses Privacy Concerns
OpenAI has resolved issues raised by Italy's data protection authority, Garante, which temporarily banned ChatGPT and launched an investigation regarding the AI application's suspected breach of privacy rules. Following OpenAI's decision to comply with Garante's concerns, the chatbot has been reactivated in Italy. The Microsoft Corp-backed company faced criticism for failing to verify the age of ChatGPT users, who must be 13 years or older. OpenAI has promised to provide a tool that will verify the age of users during sign-up. Additionally, it pledged to provide greater visibility of its privacy policy and user content opt-out form.
Greater Compliance with European Data Protection Regulations
OpenAI will also provide a new form for European Union users to exercise their right to object to the use of their personal data to train its models. However, the new form has several requirements, including providing information that proves data processing via relevant prompts. Garante hopes that OpenAI will continue to comply with European data protection regulations and further develop its technological progress for the compliance of individuals' rights.
Future Plans for ChatGPT
Italy is the first western European country to curb ChatGPT, but the AI application has attracted interest from lawmakers and regulators in other countries. A committee of European Union lawmakers agreed on new rules that would require companies deploying generative AI tools, like ChatGPT, to disclose any copyrighted material used to develop their systems. The development has led to the European Data Protection Board setting up a task force on the chatbot earlier this month. Even though ChatGPT has been reactivated in Italy, Garante said it would continue its investigation and work with the special task force.
In conclusion, OpenAI has taken decisive steps to address the privacy concerns raised by Italy's data protection authority and make ChatGPT compliant with European data protection regulations. ChatGPT is back in Italy, and OpenAI is committed to developing the chatbot further while respecting individuals' rights.
