OpenAI Under Canadian Privacy Probe for Alleged Personal Information Harvesting: What You Need to Know

OpenAI Under Investigation by Canada’s Privacy Commissioner

OpenAI, the creators of the popular artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot ChatGPT, is currently under investigation by Canada’s Office of the Privacy Commissioner (OPC) for alleged collection and use of personal information without consent. The investigation was initiated following a complaint from an unidentified person, and the OPC is closely monitoring the situation to ensure that Canadian privacy rights are protected in the context of AI technology.

Privacy Commissioner Philippe Dufresne emphasized the importance of staying ahead of technological advances and making privacy a top priority for his office. He stated, “AI technology and its effects on privacy is a priority for my Office […] We need to keep up with – and stay ahead of – fast-moving technological advances, and that is one of my key focus areas.”

At this time, the OPC has not provided further comments on the investigation and has not mentioned any limits on Canadians’ access to ChatGPT.

Potential Action by Germany, France, Ireland, and Spain

The investigation by Canada’s privacy commissioner comes as other countries are also considering potential actions related to ChatGPT. In Italy, the data protection watchdog temporarily blocked ChatGPT on March 31 while investigating an alleged data breach that occurred on March 20. This decision has raised concerns and discussions in other European countries.

Germany is considering following Italy’s lead, with the federal commissioner for Data Protection and Freedom of Information, Ulrich Kelber, stating that Germany may temporarily ban ChatGPT if his commission probes whether the chatbot violates the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Privacy regulators in France and Ireland have also contacted Italy’s watchdog to inquire about the basis of its ban, according to a Reuters report on April 4. Spain has not received any complaints about ChatGPT, but has not ruled out the possibility of a future investigation.

Other Concerns and Complaints

While the OPC’s investigation focuses on privacy concerns, other entities have expressed their own issues with AI systems like ChatGPT. The Center for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Policy (CAIDP) filed a complaint with the United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC) on March 30, claiming that ChatGPT-4 violates Section 5 of the FTC Act, which prohibits “unfair or deceptive acts or practices in or affecting commerce.”

Furthermore, a petition calling for a pause on the progress of AI systems more powerful than GPT-4 has garnered support from notable figures such as Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniack. The petition argues that these powerful AI systems may pose “profound risks to society and humanity.”

Conclusion

The investigation by Canada’s privacy commissioner and the potential actions by other countries highlight the growing concerns and discussions surrounding AI technology and privacy. As AI continues to advance, it is crucial for organizations and regulators to carefully consider the ethical implications and ensure that privacy rights are protected in the development and use of AI systems.