Privacy Protection in an AI-first World

The advancement of AI technology in recent times has been a revelation for many. The world we live in is one where an unfathomable amount of data is created, transferred, collated, stored, and used every single day. Data is everywhere, and it is understandable that where technology can be used to automate certain processes that collect and process data, that is being explored by businesses and organisations. If it can take away some of the strain from the human element of the business, why not guide those resources where they can be better used elsewhere? We do need to shift how we think about data and privacy protection in an AI world though, and one of the best ways for a business to do so is to hire outsourced data protection services to ensure that everything is above board, and that all data processing sits within the relevant regulatory frameworks.

Privacy will undoubtedly come into the spotlight under greater scrutiny as larger volumes of data is created and shared. As we all carry around smartphones in our pockets that create this data constantly, you add this to business data and other personal data, and there is so much information that can be collected, analysed, and worked with to create predictions for all sorts of potential outcomes for individuals. Every aspect of our personal, private lives could come under scrutiny. The use of artificial intelligence to process this data will only likely increase this trend. With the evolution of AI there is a need to look at privacy protection in how it relates to artificial intelligence.

What are the privacy issues with the use of AI?

It makes sense that there is regulation that is balanced when it comes to privacy and AI. Where the use of AI is beneficial, it should surely be used, in the same way that technology has advanced to make our lives easier throughout civilisation. Obviously, though, we need to ensure that an individual has the right to data privacy at all times. This is where consent, explain ability, and regular audits comes into play, and although this might seem a time-consuming exercise for some people who see the increased use of AI as unavoidable, it does provide that human element that could be crucial in making ethical decisions and ensuring that data processed by AI is used in the correct way within an actual legal framework.

Regulations to deal with AI data processing

Article 22 GDPR is the way in which the EU and UK has looked to address any privacy issues that the use of AI within data processing has thrown up. We don’t know how the evolution of AI will unfold, in terms of speed and scope, meaning that a retroactive approach has been necessary to this point. With this framework in place though, it is a much better starting point to tighten up regulations in future as AI evolves.

The basis of the regulation is that if something is to be solely automated then there must be no human involvement in the decision-making process. This is not the case where the decision could have a serious effect on the individual, such as legal or financial decisions. These types of automated processes must have a meaningful human element that isn’t just a rubber stamping exercise, has been authorised by law, or the individual has given explicit prior consent to the process. If you are using an automated process for any decision-making element of your organisation in this way, you must have the ability to explain the entire process to the individual data subject.

Fines for failed AI data compliance

Another example of how the AI regulation has been drafted by the EU is in the fines that will accompany non-compliance. This is as follows:

· Any company or organisation that supplies incorrect, incomplete, or false information to notified entities will be fined up to 2% of global turnover or €10 million (whichever amount is greater)

· Failing to cooperate with national competent authorities and obligations will be fined up to 4% of annual global turnover or €20 million

· Developing a prohibited AI system, offering it for sale, or using it, will result in a fine of up to 6% global annual turnover or €30 million

Data protection services can make a massive difference to the approach your business takes towards data in general. Data protection and data security is a massive issue that we all need to be aware of in this day and age. When you consider the impact of artificial intelligence on the way data is processed, this must be factored into any plans you make for how you deal with data moving forward. There could be a wide range of benefits to implementing certain AI and automated processes to your business, and if it is done in an honest, explainable way, it will work. An outsourced data protection officer understands the nuances and can provide you with all the information you need to make sure that your company deals with data in the correct, legal manner.