The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) has set up a task force to look into ChatGPT, a rapidly growing artificial intelligence technology that has caused concern among some privacy watchdogs. The task force was formed following an action taken by the Italian data protection authority against OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT.
ChatGPT has become the fastest-growing consumer application in history, with over 100 million monthly active users. However, its rapid adoption has raised questions about the potential threats it could pose to safety, privacy, and jobs. Policy experts, governments, and the US government have expressed their worries about the use of ChatGPT and other similar technologies.
The task force, consisting of the member states of the EDPB, hopes to align policy positions by understanding and exchanging information related to potential enforcement actions taken by data protection authorities. The task force will also ensure that the rules created are transparent and do not target any particular company.
OpenAI is a San Francisco-based technology company backed by Microsoft Corp. It is headed by co-founder and CEO Sam Altman, who has expressed his skepticism regarding the use of ChatGPT and its potential uses. OpenAI also develops breakthrough AI platforms that promote the safe, responsible, and sustainable use of artificial intelligence.
The EDPB discussion on ChatGPT was initiated through a request by Spain to discuss the matter earlier this week. The organization is an independent body that oversees data protection rules in the European Union and is composed of national data protection watchdogs. The task force will be crucial in setting a common policy on AI, thus making digital spaces safer for everyone.