By Vlad Schepkov
Several news outlets are reporting that the Chinese government is considering introducing new security reviews for artificial intelligence (AI) services, including natural language processing (NLP) models like ChatGPT.
The proposed reviews would reportedly require AI service providers to undergo thorough examinations of their technology and data management practices to ensure that they meet security standards. Companies that fail to pass the scrutiny could face penalties, including fines and restrictions on their operations. Sources familiar with the matter claim the move is part of a broader effort by the Chinese government to enhance cybersecurity measures in the country.
At this stage, it is unclear when the proposed security reviews would be introduced, or what specific requirements companies would need to meet in order to pass them.
If enacted, however, the reviews could create additional challenges for both Chinese AI players like Baidu (NASDAQ:BIDU), Alibaba (NYSE:BABA), and Tencent (HK:0700), as well their international counterparts like OpenAI/Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) and Google (NASDAQ:GOOGL) who are active in the Chinese market.
The reports come as the AI industry is facing increased scrutiny on all levels - just recently an open letter signed by over 1,100 researchers including Elon Musk and Steve Wozniak called for a six-month ban on AI research, seeking international regulation of the technology.