What's happened
Ireland's Data Protection Commission has launched an inquiry into Google's Pathways Language Model 2 (PaLM2) to assess compliance with GDPR. The investigation focuses on whether Google evaluated the risks to individuals' rights from processing personal data for AI development. This scrutiny reflects a broader trend of regulatory oversight on AI systems in Europe.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to Politico, the Irish Data Protection Commission is investigating whether Google adequately assessed the risks associated with its AI model, PaLM2, stating that the potential violation of GDPR could lead to significant fines. The Independent notes that this inquiry is part of a broader effort by European regulators to ensure AI systems respect personal data rights. The DPC emphasized the importance of conducting Data Protection Impact Assessments to safeguard individuals' rights, as highlighted in their recent statements. This scrutiny aligns with actions taken against other tech giants, such as Meta and X, which have faced similar regulatory challenges regarding their AI practices.
How we got here
The inquiry follows increasing regulatory pressure on tech firms in Europe regarding data privacy. The Irish Data Protection Commission, which oversees many major tech companies, has previously halted AI training for firms like Meta and X due to GDPR concerns. This investigation specifically targets Google's handling of personal data in AI model development.
More on these topics
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The General Data Protection Regulation is a regulation in EU law on data protection and privacy in the European Union and the European Economic Area. It also addresses the transfer of personal data outside the EU and EEA areas.
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Google LLC is an American multinational technology company that specializes in Internet-related services and products, which include online advertising technologies, a search engine, cloud computing, software, and hardware.
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Ireland is an island in the North Atlantic. It is separated from Great Britain to its east by the North Channel, the Irish Sea, and St George's Channel.
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Facebook, Inc. is an American social media conglomerate corporation based in Menlo Park, California. It was founded by Mark Zuckerberg, along with his fellow roommates and students at Harvard College, who were Eduardo Saverin, Andrew McCollum, Dustin Mosk