OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, has announced that it has resolved issues raised by the Italian Data Protection Authority (GPDP) in March, which led to the suspension of ChatGPT in Italy. The GPDP accused ChatGPT of unlawfully collecting users’ data and not preventing minors from accessing inappropriate content. OpenAI was given 20 days to address the issues or risk being permanently blocked in Italy.
Changes Made
OpenAI has restored access to ChatGPT in Italy and stated that it has “addressed or clarified” the issues raised by GPDP. Among the changes made, a new tool will verify users’ ages upon signup in Italy, and a help center article has been published outlining how OpenAI and ChatGPT collect personal information, including information about contacting its GDPR-mandated data protection officer. OpenAI has also provided a new form that EU users can submit to remove personal data under Europe’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Future Challenges
While OpenAI has resolved the issues in Italy, it may face further challenges in other countries. Spain, Canada, and other countries have opened or considered investigations into OpenAI’s practices, including how it collects training data for its large language model and what information that model produces for users. Additionally, European lawmakers are advancing the AI Act, which could add more requirements for companies like OpenAI, potentially involving significant new information disclosures. The GPDP has urged OpenAI to comply with further age verification changes and a publicity campaign to inform Italians about their right to opt out of data gathering.
OpenAI stated that it remains dedicated to protecting users’ privacy and has welcomed Italian users back to ChatGPT. However, it may need to implement additional changes to comply with new regulations and address data privacy concerns in other countries.
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