Following an investigation into privacy violations related to OpenAI’s generative AI platform, ChatGPT, that began back in 2023, the Italian data protection authority, Garante, announced on December 20 that it had fined the company 15 million euros, or approximately $15.58 million.
The Italian regulator came to the conclusion that OpenAI failed to give users enough information and transparency and improperly processed their personal data for training purposes without a valid reason. Additionally, the inquiry found that OpenAI lacked a reliable age verification system, exposing minors under the age of 13 to potentially offensive AI-generated content.
In order to inform the public about ChatGPT’s operations, specifically with regard to data usage, the regulatory body has also ordered OpenAI to launch a six-month public awareness campaign through Italian media.
OpenAI deemed the fine “disproportionate” and announced its intention to appeal the ruling.
After the company resolved issues like letting users opt out of data processing for algorithm training, ChatGPT was reintroduced in Italy after a brief ban was imposed last year due to suspected General Data Protection and Regulation (GDPR) violations.
