Italy's data protection authority, known as Garante, has informed OpenAI that their AI chatbot application, ChatGPT, violates data protection regulations. This comes as the watchdog continues its investigation, which was initiated last year. Garante is recognized as one of the most proactive authorities in the European Union in evaluating AI platforms' compliance with data privacy laws. They had previously banned ChatGPT due to alleged breaches of EU privacy rules. However, after OpenAI addressed concerns regarding user consent for personal data usage in algorithm training, the service was reinstated. Despite this, the regulator confirmed that its investigations would persist. In a recent statement, Garante revealed that there are indications of potential data privacy violations without providing further details. OpenAI has yet to respond to requests for comment.

Microsoft-backed OpenAI has been given a 30-day period to present its defense arguments, and the investigation will take into consideration the work of a European task force comprised of national privacy watchdogs. Italy was the first Western European nation to impose restrictions on ChatGPT, a rapidly advancing technology that has captured the attention of lawmakers and regulators. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), implemented in 2018 by the EU, stipulates that companies found in breach of data protection rules can face fines of up to 4% of their global turnover. In December, EU lawmakers and governments reached an agreement on provisional terms for regulating AI systems like ChatGPT, marking progress towards establishing comprehensive rules for the technology. Gildan Activewear, a Canadian apparel manufacturer, announced plans for an annual and special shareholder meeting on May 28. This move comes in response to investor pressure urging the replacement of a majority of board members and the reinstatement of Glen Chamandy as CEO. Contrary to media reports, Elon Musk stated that his AI company, xAI, is not currently engaged in discussions with investors to secure funding.