Zubair Qureshi
Artificial Intelligence (AI) can only be used with reduced risks and increased benefits, moreover, in a scenario when these technologies are programmed to follow consumer-friendly ethical standards and principles.
A press statement issued by TheNetwork for Consumer Protection (TNCP) on the eve of the World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD) being observed on March 15 (today) said the recent breakthroughs in generative AI have taken the digital world by storm. Its adoption by consumers has grown rapidly, and the technology is set to have an enormous impact on the way we work, create, communicate, gather information, and much more.
The questions posed by TNCP for building the foundations for genuine transparency and trust include: What measures are needed to protect consumers against deep fakes and misinformation? How do we ethically navigate the collection and use of consumer data? And who is responsible when a person is harmed by generative AI?
In the backdrop of these questions, this year’s World Consumer Rights Day is also featuring a global conversation for fair and responsible AI for consumers.
This year, WCRD is highlighting concerns like misinformation, privacy violations, and discriminatory practices, as well as how AI-driven platforms can spread false information and perpetuate biases.
CEO of TNCP, NadeemIqbal, while highlighting the judicious use of technologies said if used properly, generative AI could enhance consumer care and improve channels of redress.
However, it will also have serious implications for consumer safety and digital fairness. With developments taking place at breakneck speed, we must move quickly to ensure a fair and responsible AI future, he said adding while the world is developing the regulatory framework on AI, it is imperative for the Pakistani policymakers that as a first step, they should incorporate consumer-friendly principles in the existing regulations that might be used to curb AI misuse.
