The Irish Data Protection Commission Launches Inquiry into Google’s AI Model
Google, the tech giant we all know and use regularly, is now under scrutiny by Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DPC) regarding its AI model compliance with GDPR. This is certainly a hot topic in the tech world right now.
The DPC, officially known as An Coimisiún um Chosaint Sonraí, is the leading privacy regulator for Google within the EU. Recently, the DPC initiated a cross-border statutory inquiry into Google Ireland under Section 110 of the Data Protection Act 2018, raising eyebrows in the industry.
The investigation revolves around whether Google should have conducted a Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA) before processing data related to EU and EEA citizens in its foundational AI model, the Pathways Language Model 2 (PaLM 2).
One crucial aspect being scrutinized is cross-border processing, a scenario where personal data is handled in multiple member states or has the potential to impact citizens across various member states, a complex issue indeed.
According to Article 35 of the GDPR, data processors must conduct an impact assessment, especially when data processing is likely to pose a high risk to individual rights and freedoms. This is especially pertinent when cutting-edge technologies like AI are involved.
This inquiry comes on the heels of the DPC’s recent actions against other tech giants like X (formerly Twitter) and Meta (Facebook, Instagram) over their AI model practices. These companies have had to adjust their data processing protocols to align with EU privacy standards.
As the tech industry navigates the evolving landscape of data protection regulations, it’s clear that collaboration between tech companies and regulatory bodies like the DPC and ICO is crucial for ensuring privacy standards in an age of rapid technological advancement.
Stay tuned for updates on this ongoing inquiry as the tech world continues to grapple with the ever-shifting sands of data protection and AI compliance.
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