The European Union Intensifies Measures Against Microsoft for Failing to Respond to Information Request on AI Tools
The European Union (EU) has stepped up its actions against Microsoft following the company’s lack of response to a request for information (RFI) on its artificial intelligence tools. This move comes at a critical time, as the European Parliament elections are set to take place next month.
Requests for information: In March, the EU requested information from Microsoft regarding the electoral risks that could arise from the artificial intelligence features of its Bing search engine, including its AI chatbot, Copilot, and image generator.
New deadline: After the initial lack of response, the EU set a new deadline for May 27. On that date, the provided information will be evaluated to determine if further scrutiny is necessary.
Potential sanctions: If Microsoft fails to meet this new deadline or provides incomplete or misleading information, it could face a penalty of up to 6% of its annual global revenue, which in its latest report amounted to 211 billion dollars.
In response to the EU’s actions, Microsoft has stated that it is “fully cooperating with the European Commission” and is “deeply committed to creating safe online experiences and working with regulators on this important issue.”
The imposition of such a significant fine underscores the EU’s determination to ensure transparency and security in the use of artificial intelligence tools, especially in such a sensitive context as elections. Collaboration between major tech companies and regulators is crucial in mitigating potential risks and ensuring a safe and reliable digital environment for all users.
This situation also highlights the EU’s increasing scrutiny of the practices of major tech companies and its willingness to impose significant penalties to ensure compliance with its regulations.