Snapchat Receives Warning Over AI Chatbot Privacy Risks
The United Kingdom’s data watchdog, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), has issued a preliminary enforcement notice to Snapchat for potential privacy risks associated with its AI chatbot, “My AI.” The regulator claims that Snapchat failed to adequately assess the privacy risks before launching the chatbot. The ICO’s investigation revealed that the risks to millions of My AI users, including minors aged 13–17, were not properly identified.
“We have been clear that organizations must consider the risks associated with AI, alongside the benefits. Today’s preliminary enforcement notice shows we will take action in order to protect U.K. consumers’ privacy rights.” – John Edwards, U.K.’s Information Commissioner
If a final enforcement notice is issued, Snap may be required to cease data processing for My AI and would be unable to offer the service in the UK without conducting an adequate risk assessment. The ICO emphasized that its investigation is ongoing and no conclusions should be drawn at this stage.
My AI on Snapchat+ and OpenAI Technology
The My AI chatbot was introduced to Snapchat+ users in the UK in February 2023 and later expanded its availability in April 2023. Powered by OpenAI’s GPT-4 technology, it became the first generative AI integrated into a major messaging platform in the UK. A spokesperson for Snapchat stated that My AI underwent a thorough legal and privacy review before being made available publicly.
Increased Integration of AI by Social Media Platforms
In recent months, major social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Meta (Facebook and Instagram’s parent company), and Google have incorporated AI features into their services. LinkedIn announced additional AI tools for recruiters and an AI assistant in its learning center, while Meta and Google have integrated AI chatbots into their offerings.
Hot Take: Snapchat Faces Privacy Concerns with AI Chatbot
Snapchat’s AI chatbot, My AI, has come under scrutiny from the UK data watchdog for potential privacy risks. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) issued a preliminary enforcement notice to Snapchat, alleging that the company failed to properly assess the privacy risks associated with My AI. If a final enforcement notice is issued, Snap may have to halt data processing for My AI and conduct an adequate risk assessment. This incident highlights the importance of considering the risks associated with AI and protecting users’ privacy rights. It also reflects a growing trend of social media platforms integrating AI technologies into their services.
By
By
By
By