The Federal Association of Consumer Organizations (vzbv) has published a series of recommendations on AI regulation to protect consumers from the risks of AI and promote independent risk assessment. This is happening in time for the final phase of the trilogue negotiations on the Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) in Brussels.
AI regulation: protection against manipulation and exploitation
The vzbv demands that the AI Act legally protects consumers from manipulation and exploitation of personal weaknesses by AI. It is important that AI systems do not use unfair tactics to influence or exploit consumers. The association advocates that the AI Act provide strong protections for consumers to ensure that they are adequately protected in their interactions with AI systems. The AI Act should also make the risks of AI systems transparent so that consumers can make an informed decision.
Inclusion of independent experts
The vzbv emphasizes the importance of an independent risk assessment of high-risk AI systems. This ensures that risks are appropriately assessed and potential dangers to consumers are identified.
Right to explanation, closure of regulatory gaps
An important demand of the vzbv is the right of consumers to an explanation of AI-based decisions. This is particularly true for high-risk AI systems, for example in the area of insurance.
The vzbv also calls for regulatory gaps in the ban on AI-driven manipulation of consumers and the exploitation of personal weaknesses to be closed. It is important that consumers are protected from such unfair practices. In addition, the AI Act should be included in the European Representative Actions Directive to enable collective redress. This would enable consumer associations to take legal action on behalf of affected consumers and effectively represent their interests.
According to a recent survey, many consumers feel well-informed about AI and how it works. This underlines the importance of comprehensive consumer protection and clear regulation of AI systems. The vzbv is committed to ensuring that consumers are protected from the dangers of AI and that their rights are strengthened.
Source:
Press release , Federal Association of Consumer Organizations – “Recommendations to improve the AI Act | July 7, 2023”
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