The data protection environment needs to be able to respond to new technologies and security concerns that may come with their use. Despite the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) being in effect for over six years, many organisations still struggle to maintain a mature compliance framework. This week, I had the opportunity to meet with three clients to discuss their GDPR progress and we discussed their use of AI technologies. 
The AI Blindspot
One particular meeting stood out, as we delved into the use of AI technology within their organisation. What we uncovered was a stark reminder of how easily new technologies can introduce unintended risks to the organisation:
1. AI-Powered Transcription Services: The company had been using AI software to transcribe various meetings, including sensitive board and staff discussions. However, they had not considered the implications of sharing this data with third-party AI providers, they were not even clear where this information was being held.
2. Lack of Due Diligence: No thorough vetting had been conducted on the AI software providers to ensure data security or understand how the shared information might be used to train AI algorithms.
3. Shadow IT Concerns: While discussing company-approved AI tools, it became apparent that employees might be using free, unapproved AI services, potentially exposing business data without proper safeguards.
A False Sense of Security
What’s particularly concerning is that this organisation believed they had a mature GDPR program in place and they are very risk averse in their normal business operations. Yet, they had overlooked the potential risks associated with these new uses of business data, including personal information. This revelation caused considerable concern, especially given the company’s generally risk-averse nature.
The Importance of Regular Reviews
This experience underscores a crucial point: compliance is not a one-time achievement but an ongoing process. Regular reviews of your GDPR compliance framework are essential to identify and address new gaps as they emerge. While it may seem tedious, frequent assessments are far more efficient than trying to plug multiple holes after they’ve grown too large to ignore.
Action Item for Businesses
This week, I encourage all businesses to take a moment and consider:
1. How are you currently using AI within your organisation?
2. Are you inadvertently sharing business or personal information with AI systems without fully understanding how that data will be used?
3. Do you have clear policies and guidelines in place for the use of AI tools, both company-approved and potential shadow IT?
Moving Forward
As we continue to embrace the benefits of AI and other emerging technologies, it’s crucial to remain vigilant about data protection. Regular compliance reviews, thorough due diligence on technology providers, and clear guidelines for employees can help mitigate risks and ensure that your GDPR framework evolves alongside your business practices.
Remember, staying compliant doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By addressing potential issues proactively, you can save time, resources, and protect your organisation from significant risks down the line.
If you need assistance in navigating GDPR compliance, information security, or understanding how AI impacts your business data, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can ensure that your organisation remains both innovative and compliant in this rapidly changing digital landscape.