Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini Criticizes ChatGPT Ban In Italy, Calls It Excessive

ChatGPT illustration (Photo: Doc. Unsplash)

JAKARTA - Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini criticized the government's Data Protection Authority's decision to temporarily ban chatbot ChatGPT. The reason for the blocking was due to privacy concerns that seemed excessive. Microsoft-backed OpenAI took ChatGPT offline in Italy last Friday after the national data agency voiced concern over possible privacy breaches and for failing to verify users aged 13 and over, as requested. The agency's independent move from the government has made Italy the first western country to take action against chatbots backed by artificial intelligence. "I found the privacy watchdog's decision to force #ChatGPT to prevent access from Italy to be disproportionate," said ruling coalition League party leader Matteo Salvini on Instagram, quoted from channelnewsasia, Sunday, April 2. Salvini, who also serves as the transport minister, said regulatory measures were hypocritical. Common sense is needed for reasons of privacy concerns almost all online services. Italian Data Protection Authority declined to comment on Salvini's post. Since its release last year, ChatGPT has sparked tech enthusiasts, prompting its competitors to launch similar products and companies to integrate them or similar technologies into their applications and products. OpenAI, which disabled ChatGPT for users in Italy at the agency's request, said on Friday it was actively working to reduce the use of personal data in training its AI systems such as ChatGPT. "We look forward to working with (the Italian data agency) and educating them about how our system is built and used," he said. The ban could hurt national businesses and innovations, Salvini said, adding that he hoped a quick solution could be found and chatbot access to Italy restored. "Every technological revolution brings about change, risk, and great opportunities. It is true to control and regulate through international cooperation between regulators and legislators, but cannot be hindered," he said.