Open AI’s ChatGPT has started offering its services in Italy again after addressing regulatory concerns raised by Italy’s data protection authority, Garante.

The internet’s most popular chatbot, banned in Italy for nearly a month, is now operational, albeit with some systemic changes.

Back on March 31, Garante imposed a temporary ban on the ChatGPT service in Italy over the extremely popular chatbot’s alleged violation of the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

However, the ban was mainly due to the ChatGPT data breach that occurred on March 20, which resulted in the leakage of user conversations and payment information.

According to Italy’s data security agency, ChatGPT has no legal backing to defend its massive database of personal data, which it claims is used to train the algorithms behind its operations.

Garante also noted that due to the lack of an age verification system, underage and minor users of ChatGPT could be exposed to answers that may be beyond their level of development and awareness.

ChatGPT complies with Garante, rolls out new policy

Nearly a month after the ban, ChatGPT developer Open AI appears to have taken the necessary steps to satisfy Italy’s safety regulator.

According to an official statement confirming Garante’s restoration of ChatGPT services, Open AI has agreed to expand its privacy policy to allow individuals across Europe, including non-users, to object to the processing of their data for training algorithms.

Additionally, the Microsoft-backed company has now added an age verification feature that allows only users above 13 years and above 18 years to log in to ChatGPT. However, users above 13 years must obtain parental consent.

Garante praised Open AI for demonstrating this compliance effort, saying:

“Italian SA acknowledges the steps OpenAI has taken to reconcile technological advancement with respect for individual rights and hopes the company will continue its efforts to comply with European data protection legislation.”

Additionally, Garante called on Open AI to fulfill all outstanding requests listed in the April 11 order.

European authorities step up efforts to regulate artificial intelligence

As AI-based services like ChatGPT gain traction, European authorities are stepping up efforts to regulate the fast-growing sector and protect user interests.

For example, after the Garante’s temporary ban on ChatGPT, the European Data Protection Board (EDPB), the general enforcement body of the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation, deployed a task force to conduct a comprehensive study of chatbots.

In addition, members of the EU Parliament launched the three-part phase of the AI ​​Bill, a bill aimed at examining the operations of AI companies.

Under the proposal in the bill, AI products would be categorized based on their risk level, ranging from minimal, limited, high and unacceptable.

If passed, the bill would require all AI companies to disclose any copyrighted material used in developing their products.