European Commission Sets Deadline for Microsoft’s Generative AI Risks Disclosure
In a recent statement, the European Commission has expressed its concerns regarding the potential risks associated with generative AI features in Microsoft’s search engine Bing. The Commission is particularly focused on the threat posed by deep fakes and the automated manipulation of services that could mislead voters ahead of the crucial European Parliament elections in June.
The urgency of the situation was underscored by the Commission’s announcement of intensified enforcement actions. This move comes after Microsoft failed to respond to an information request dated March 14. The tech giant now faces a strict deadline of May 27 to provide comprehensive details on the risks linked to its generative AI features.
Failure to comply with the Commission’s request could result in substantial financial penalties for Bing. The search engine could be fined up to 1 percent of its total annual income, with additional periodic penalties that could reach up to 5 percent of its average daily income. Moreover, the provision of incorrect or misleading information could also trigger fines.
The European Union’s landmark Digital Services Act, which came into effect last year, mandates tech companies to intensify their efforts in combating illegal and harmful content on their platforms. As part of this regulatory framework, generative AI has been identified as a significant risk factor for the integrity of electoral processes.
With the upcoming European Parliament elections on the horizon, the European Commission is taking a firm stance on ensuring that digital platforms do not become conduits for election interference. Microsoft, along with other tech companies, is expected to adhere to these heightened regulatory expectations to safeguard democratic institutions and processes.
