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A Double-Edged Sword: The Role of AI in Data Privacy Challenges

28 January 2025

HR

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As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape industries and redefine possibilities, it brings with it both unprecedented opportunities and significant challenges—particularly in the realm of data privacy. While AI has the potential to enhance security and streamline data protection efforts, it also introduces new vulnerabilities that businesses and individuals must navigate carefully.

To shed light on this critical topic, we spoke with Antoine, our Data Protection Officer, and Hubert, our Information Security Specialist. Together, they explore how AI is transforming data privacy, the risks it presents, and the steps companies and individuals can take to safeguard sensitive information in an AI-driven world.

How is AI being used to strengthen data privacy protections, and where do you see its most significant benefits? 

AI is revolutionizing data privacy protections by implementing advanced techniques and technologies to safeguard sensitive information. For instance, measures such as encryption and anonymisation help in securing data during transmission and storage, ensuring that personal information remains confidential and protected from unauthorized access. Additionally, AI systems are designed to follow responsible practices in accordance with privacy statements to ensure that user data is not shared with other users. These systems also help in detecting and preventing data breaches in real-time, managing consent, and ensuring compliance with privacy regulations.

– Antoine, Data Protection Officer

What are the most significant threats AI poses to data privacy within companies today? 

As AI can process vast amounts of data quickly, companies are increasingly using it on a large scale. This widespread adoption comes with the risk that sensitive data may inadvertently be uploaded to these platforms, potentially leading to leaks or misuse. AI systems may also collect more personal information than necessary, raising significant privacy concerns. Another challenge is the lack of transparency in AI decision-making, which makes it difficult to determine whether privacy regulations are being upheld. These factors make managing data privacy in AI systems a complex and critical issue.

Hubert, Information Security Specialist

Can you share an example of how AI technologies have been exploited to compromise data privacy, either in the industry or hypothetical scenarios? 

AI technologies can be exploited to compromise data privacy in various ways especially when AI models are trained on datasets that include personal information without proper anonymization or consent. Notably, the use of generative AI tools trained with data scraped from the internet. These tools can memorize personal information about people, as well as relational data about their family and friends. This data can then be exploited for purposes such as spear-phishing, where individuals are deliberately targeted for identity theft or fraud.

– Antoine, Data Protection Officer

How can businesses balance the use of AI for innovation with the responsibility to protect data? 

To balance innovation with data protection, companies must design AI-driven processes with privacy in mind from the start. At GO we are preparing clear policies that will guide our teams on the proper use of AI and what type of data is safe to be processed. By continuously assessing the risks of AI processing, businesses can ensure they are using data responsibly. Building trust with customers by demonstrating a strong commitment to privacy will also be essential for balancing innovation and responsibility. At GO we are firm believers in this as is exemplified by our purpose to “drive a digital Malta where no one is left behind”.

– Hubert, Information Security Specialist

What steps can companies take to ensure AI systems remain ethical, transparent, and secure in their handling of private information? 

Ensuring that AI systems remain ethical, transparent, and secure in their handling of private information is crucial for maintaining trust and compliance. In this regard, companies should adhere to the concept of data minimisation, thereby collecting and using only the data that is absolutely necessary for the AI system to function. They should protect data both in storage and during transmission using strong encryption methods, thereby ensuring that even if data is intercepted, it remains unreadable to unauthorized parties. And above everything, companies should conduct regular security audits to check for vulnerabilities in AI systems and address them immediately. Regular audits help in identifying and mitigating potential security risks.

– Antoine, Data Protection Officer

Do you believe advancements in AI will eventually outpace current data privacy measures, and how should companies prepare? 

Yes, AI is advancing so rapidly that privacy measures may struggle to keep pace. To prepare, companies should stay informed about emerging risks and new data protection tools. At GO we have regular discussions on emerging technologies such as AI and our teams collaborating with experts and regulators to help establish stronger privacy frameworks for the future. Encouraging a company culture that prioritizes privacy and continuous improvement helps GO stay ahead of challenges and become Better Every Day.

– Hubert, Information Security Specialist

AI represents a powerful tool for innovation, but it is indeed a double-edged sword when it comes to data privacy. By proactively addressing risks, adopting responsible practices, and fostering a culture of accountability, businesses and individuals alike can ensure that AI’s promise outweighs its peril.