Data Protection Commission Resolves Case Against X’s AI Tool ‘Grok’

The Data Protection Commission (DPC) announced on Wednesday the conclusion of its legal proceedings against X, regarding its AI tool ‘Grok.’

The case, initiated on 8 August 2024, was brought before the Irish High Court due to concerns over the use of personal data from X’s EU/EEA users for training its AI system. The DPC had argued that this data processing posed risks to individuals’ fundamental rights and freedoms.

X has originally criticized the DPC’s order, calling it “unwarranted” and “overbroad,” and argued that it unfairly targets the company. X expressed concern that the order could affect not just Grok but other AI models and potentially impact the availability of its platform in the EU.

However, the company has now agreed to permanently adhere to the terms set out in a previous undertaking, leading the Court to strike out the case. Notably, TechCrunch reports that the specific details of X’s new agreement with the DPC have not been disclosed to the public.

In its announcement the DPC emphasized its ongoing efforts to address issues related to personal data use in AI systems. The Commission announced that it will seek an opinion from the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) to clarify the complex legal questions surrounding the processing of personal data in AI training.

Commissioner Dale Sunderland expressed hope that this forthcoming EDPB opinion would lead to more consistent regulation across Europe. “The DPC expects this opinion to provide a clear framework for regulating AI data use, supporting the resolution of numerous complaints related to the training and development of AI models,” Sunderland said.

This announcement comes shortly after a Brazilian Supreme Federal Court judge ordered the suspension of X’s platform across Brazil. This decision followed X’s failure to comply with an earlier court order, escalating tensions between the company and the Brazilian government.

These suspensions highlight the increasing scrutiny that tech giants face globally as governments grapple with issues of online regulation and accountability.