Italy made headlines as the first Western nation to take action against conversational AI, ChatGPT, backed by Microsoft and developed by OpenAI.
The decision came after the national data agency voiced concerns over potential privacy violations and the inability to confirm users’ ages. As a result, ChatGPT was taken offline in Italy on Friday, March 31, prompting widespread debate among the tech industry and the country.
Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini openly criticized the move as excessive on Instagram, stating that the Privacy Watchdog’s decision to restrict access to ChatGPT in Italy was “disproportionate.”
Salvini called for common sense, pointing out that many other AI-based services, such as Bing’s chat, are still operational, and that privacy issues affect nearly all online platforms.
He also expressed concern that the ban could have negative consequences on Italy’s economy and innovation, urging for a swift resolution and restoration of ChatGPT access within the country.
Salvini emphasized the need for international cooperation between regulators and legislators in controlling and regulating new technology, rather than blocking it outright.
Ron Moscona, a partner at international law firm Dorsey & Whitney and a specialist in technology and data privacy, also questioned the ban. He noted that it was atypical for regulators to entirely prohibit a service due to a data breach incident.
OpenAI has complied with the Italian authorities’ request to block ChatGPT for users within Italy. However, the company has stressed its commitment to European privacy regulations and its willingness to work with Italy’s privacy regulatory body.
OpenAI also highlighted its efforts to minimize personal data usage when training AI systems like ChatGPT, focusing on acquiring knowledge about the world rather than specific individuals’ information.
ChatGPT is also facing scrutiny in other parts of the world. On the same day it was taken offline in Italy, the Center for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Policy (CAIDP) filed a complaint against the chatbot. CAIDP described ChatGPT as a “biased” and “deceptive” platform that poses risks to public safety and privacy.
As the controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen how the situation in Italy will impact AI regulations and deployment worldwide.
