Snapchat is facing scrutiny from the UK’s data watchdog, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), over the potential privacy risks posed by its AI chatbot, particularly to children. The ICO has warned that it may close down Snapchat’s My AI feature in the UK following a preliminary investigation. My AI allows users to chat with an AI-powered computer that simulates human conversation and is powered by ChatGPT. With 21 million UK users, many of them children, Snapchat has drawn the ICO’s concern, particularly for 13- to 17-year-old users.
Snapchat, its parent company, stated it would “work constructively” with the ICO to address its concerns, emphasizing that it conducted a “robust legal and privacy review” before making My AI public. The ICO’s findings are not final, and it has not determined whether Snapchat violated data protection laws. The ICO’s notice signals to Snapchat to ensure My AI complies with data protection rules, including the Children’s Design Code.
My AI, described as “an experimental and friendly” chatbot, is designed to assist users with tasks such as planning day trips or creating menus. It was launched earlier this year and has over two million daily chats on the app. However, it has faced criticism for occasionally providing incorrect or biased responses. Privacy concerns also revolve around whether My AI can access private information like location data. Snapchat maintains that it can only access location data with user consent.
Information Commissioner John Edwards commented on the ICO’s preliminary findings, highlighting Snap’s failure to identify and assess privacy risks before launching My AI. The ICO has the authority to issue fines for severe breaches, which could be substantial if privacy concerns are not adequately addressed.
Snapchat is closely reviewing the ICO’s provisional decision and will work with the ICO to ensure compliance with risk assessment procedures before making the final decision.
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