Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) has issued new guidelines to regulate the use of personal data in training AI systems. The guidelines, titled Advisory Guidelines on use of Personal Data in AI Recommendation and Decision Systems, aim to promote transparency and accountability in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI).
Companies utilizing personal data in AI systems are now required to inform consumers about how their data is being used and the specific ways it contributes to the functionality of AI. For example, individuals using streaming services should be informed that their viewing history data is utilized to enhance movie recommendations based on genres or frequently watched films.
The guidelines also highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and review processes to ensure compliance with data protection principles and best practices. Companies are encouraged to regularly assess the effectiveness of their data handling procedures, particularly concerning AI systems, to uphold user privacy and trust.
This move by the PDPC comes in response to industry concerns expressed during the Singapore Conference on AI in December 2023. Stakeholders raised fears about data privacy in AI, leading to a public consultation that concluded in August 2023. Cybersecurity firm Kaspersky recommended seeking explicit consent from users during the development and testing stages of AI models and providing them with an option to opt out of their data being used for AI training.
Industry players have welcomed these guidelines as a step towards building greater trust and transparency in AI systems. By navigating the complexities of data usage in AI ethically and responsibly, companies can foster a culture of accountability and consumer empowerment.
As AI continues to grow across various sectors, ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of personal data remains crucial. The guidelines issued by the PDPC aim to strike a balance between fostering AI innovation and safeguarding user privacy. Challenges remain in educating consumers about the intricacies of AI data usage while maintaining their trust and confidence.
