Europe followed by the US reviews ChatGPT AI regulations: "Guardrails are necessary"

US NTIA "Review to Prevent the Spread of Harmful Information"

Starting with major US big tech companies such as Microsoft (MS) and Google, a global battle over generative artificial intelligence (AI) is underway, and the Joe Biden administration has joined the ranks of AI regulation. Following Italy's restriction on the use of ChatGPT, which led the generative AI craze, major countries such as the UK and Canada have hinted at the possibility of introducing regulations, drawing attention to whether the US, where AI technology development is most active, will also establish regulations.

According to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) and others on the 10th (local time), Alan Davidson, head of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) under the US Department of Commerce, said in an interview that day that they have begun reviewing the need to introduce related regulations, such as whether government authorities' prior certification or approval is required to prevent issues like the spread of harmful information and personal data leaks before AI like ChatGPT is released.

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

Davidson said, "Even though it is still in the relatively early stages of development, it is surprising to see what that tool (AI chatbot) can do," adding, "We know that some guardrails are definitely needed for it (AI chatbot) to be used responsibly."

The NTIA will review the need for AI-related regulations over the next 60 days. The NTIA plans to invite companies, civic groups, and researchers to discuss this matter. Davidson explained that the NTIA is not trying to create and enforce regulations itself but intends to advise President Biden on technology policy.

Davidson stated that the focus will be on devising the best way to monitor AI systems. He added, "The goal of this process is to develop recommendations based on expert opinions gathered from the field on what the government can do to promote responsible AI innovation."

These remarks from US regulatory authorities came after the release of ChatGPT in November last year and the subsequent launch of AI chatbots by MS and Google this year. As ChatGPT gained widespread popularity, the use of AI in daily life has increased significantly, leading to various issues such as personal data leaks and the spread of misinformation.

However, no country currently has clear regulations properly established regarding AI, raising concerns among experts, governments, and legislatures alike.

The White House announced a blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights last year, which includes demands for privacy protection, safety measures, and anti-discrimination.

Earlier, on the 4th, President Biden held a meeting of the Science and Technology Advisory Committee at the White House, mentioning the risks of AI technology and urging IT companies to "take responsibility for safety," emphasizing that "they have a responsibility to make products safe before releasing technology to the public." According to WSJ, the advisory committee included CEOs of MS and Google.

Attention is focused on whether the US government will actually establish guardrails through this review process. Even if established, it remains to be seen whether the level of restrictions will be severe enough to impact companies. Following Italy's regulatory authorities restricting the use of ChatGPT at the end of last month, major countries such as the UK, Canada, and Japan are also reviewing AI-related regulations.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.