OpenAI’s ChatGPT made a comeback in Italy after the deployment of changes to meet the regulations imposed by the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). After its suspension due to potential GDPR violations, new age-verification measures have been added as well as a new form for European users to exercise their right to erase personal information under the GDPR. OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, had confirmed the return of ChatGPT to the Italian market.
OpenAI had previously faced an accusation of unlawfully gathering user data and failing to protect underage users from accessing inappropriate content. As such, the Garante (Italian Data Protection Authority) gave the company 20 days to make the necessary changes in order for ChatGPT to be allowed back in the Italian market. OpenAI was able to comply with the regulators and ChatGPT was once again available for use after only 29 days. OpenAI is pleased to welcome the Italian users back on ChatGPT, emphasizing its diligence on protecting user privacy.
OpenAI is a technology company focussed on developing artificial intelligence applications for global markets. They are mostly known for their development of GPT-3, the biggest language model seen to date. OpenAI has sought to increase the use of AI in various businesses and has also provided access to some of their technologies through their cloud computing platform.
Sam Altman is the CEO of OpenAI since 2017. He is an American entrepreneur and investor, and was the president of Y Combinator before becoming the CEO of OpenAI. He is also the co-chairman of the OpenAI board where he is responsible for their investment goals and strategic decisions.
AI chatbots such as ChatGPT continue to witness tremendous growth and expansion. Along with the increased popularity, OpenAI and other organizations will be facing challenging regulations placed on their data collection methods and generated content for users. In Europe, the AI Act is going through the legislative process which may add higher scrutiny on companies such as OpenAI. In any case, OpenAI has already displayed its commitment towards adhering to privacy and user protection regulations.
