Since artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly revolutionising technology, South Africa’s Information Regulator (InfoReg) is preparing itself so that AI can be used ethically and personal information can be protected.
At the most recent annual stakeholder consultation session, InfoReg member Alison Tilley referred to the urgent need for regulatory frameworks that address the dangers and obligations triggered by AI. “AI and data protection are two sides of the same coin,” she asserted. “We need to ensure these technologies honour people’s dignity.”
The Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) technically demands human intervention to already be present in automated decision-making. But Tilley acknowledged this was just half the battle. “We are going to have to pay increasing attention to what the AI is doing with people’s data,” she said. “We’ve been making some notes and have clear plans to react.”
Globally, regulators are working to create or update policies to manage the rise of AI, balancing innovation with safeguards. South Africa is no exception. InfoReg aims to remain relevant and effective even as new technologies emerge at an outstanding pace.
unprecedented
As AI systems are deployed worldwide, InfoReg is positioning itself to respond and lead in upholding data rights in an increasingly digital landscape.
