We are launching a consultation series on how aspects of data protection law should apply to the development and use of generative AI models.
Generative AI refers to AI models that can create new content eg text, computer code, audio, music, images, and videos. Typically these models are trained on extensive datasets, which allows them to exhibit a broad range of general-purpose capabilities.
The impact of generative AI could be transformative for people and businesses if organisations develop and deploy it responsibly with the trust of the people whose data it is built on. We are moving fast to address any risks and enable organisations and the public to reap the benefits of generative AI.
New technology, new questions
Our engagement with innovators has highlighted several areas where organisations would welcome further clarity on how data protection law applies to the development and use of generative AI.
As generative AI is developed and deployed in ways that are distinct from simpler AI models used for classification or prediction objectives, this raises new questions.
These include:
- what is the appropriate lawful basis for training generative AI models?
- how does the purpose limitation principle play out in the context of generative AI development and deployment?
- what are the expectations around complying with the accuracy principle?
- what are the expectations in terms of complying with data subject rights?
Our consultation series
Over the coming months, we will share a series of chapters to outline our emerging thinking on how we interpret specific requirements of UK GDPR and Part 2 of the DPA 2018 in relation to these questions.
We invite all stakeholders with an interest in generative AI to respond and help inform our positions. This includes developers and users of generative AI, legal advisors and consultants working in this area, civil society groups and other public bodies with an interest in generative AI.
We will use the input received to update our guidance on AI and other products.
Chapter one: The lawful basis for web scraping to train generative AI models
Our first chapter covers the lawful basis for training generative AI models on web-scraped data and is open until 1 March 2024. You can let us know your thoughts on the chapter online or via email at [email protected].