DLA Piper launches AI Scorebox as early warning system

DLA Piper has just launched its AI Scorebox, a free assessment tool for the rapidly growing number of organisations utilising the power of AI in their businesses.

With the publication of the final draft of the European Commission’s Regulation on Artificial Intelligence (AI Regulation) anticipated as soon as the second half of 2022, with a possible compliance deadline as early as mid-2024, the pressure is on organisations to undertake what can be complex assessments of their current situation and then make any necessary adjustment in order to comply. Non-compliance with sections of the AI Regulation relating to ‘High-Risk’ systems could be as high as a staggering 6% of annual global turnover.

The breadth of risks posed by the AI Regulation and its extra-terrestrial reach will, like GDPR before it, require businesses outside the EU to also assess whether they are caught by the legislation. Regions at the forefront of embracing AI technology, such as the US, are also recognising the need to regulate the use of AI to avoid erosion of ethical values underpinning society. The US Federal Trade Commission enforces against unfair or deceptive commercial practices, which could include the sale or use of racially biased algorithms, for example.

The AI Scorebox works by filling out a straightforward online assessment, which enables companies and organisations to assess their use of AI technology and how this measures up to evolving regulatory landscapes across the world. The tool also provides a summary report showing an organisation’s score in key areas and allows aggregated data benchmarking against other responses.

Mark O’Conor, Intellectual Property & Technology partner at DLA Piper, commented:

“Organisations around the world are already waking up to the need to demonstrate how AI can be used ethically and safely. Various market leaders are already developing and implementing formal AI policies and their commitment to safe, fair and non-discriminatory practises. This type of forward-thinking, along with the imminent introduction of punitive legislation, underlines the need for organisations using AI to do so with an eye on both the market and the legislative backdrop. The AI Scorebox can provide valuable information to enable businesses to implement the changes needed to satisfy both consumers and regulators.”