Japanese Officials Tighten Stance on AI Data Harvesting

• The authorities did send a warning that it is ready to take extra measures if problems persist.
• ChatGPT was temporarily prohibited in Italy following a review.

After being alerted by the country’s local privacy agency about ChatGPT’s data harvesting tactics, Japanese officials have begun tightening their attitude against artificial intelligence (AI).

In a statement released on June 2nd, Japan’s Personal Information Protection Commission requested that OpenAI reduce the amount of sensitive data it gathers for machine learning. It also emphasizes the need of asking permission before doing so.

Need of Striking a Balance

The need of striking a balance between the commission’s privacy concerns and the promotion of innovation and the potential advantages of AI was also emphasized. However, it did send a warning that it is ready to take extra measures if problems persist.

These comments follow the May 26 submission of a draft by the Japanese government’s AI policy committee. Which expressed worry about the absence of laws for AI and the threats it presents to society. Takashi Kii, a legislator in Japan, has pledged to join the call for copyright holders to be protected against AI algorithm infringement.

Following a review of its security standards by Italian authorities in March, ChatGPT was temporarily prohibited in the country. This caused alarm among government officials throughout the globe and prompted investigations into the technology in various nations.

Japanese authorities have already expressed their approval of OpenAI. Hirokazu Matsuno, Japan’s chief cabinet secretary, has even suggested the country may use AI in its administrative infrastructure. However, Matsuno noted that addressing privacy and security concerns was essential before AI integration could occur. According to a study conducted on April 30th. Around 69.4% of Japanese respondents want more stringent limits on the advancement of AI.