OpenAI Fined $15.6 Million by Italian Privacy Regulator Over ChatGPT Data Practices

Italy's Garante authority found OpenAI violated EU privacy laws by improperly processing personal data and lacking transparency.

Italy's privacy watchdog, Garante, fined OpenAI €15 million ($15.6 million) after concluding an investigation into ChatGPT's data practices.
The regulator determined that OpenAI processed user data without a proper legal basis and failed to meet transparency and information requirements.
The investigation also revealed that ChatGPT lacked adequate age verification measures to prevent users under 13 from accessing inappropriate content.
OpenAI has criticized the fine as 'disproportionate,' noting it is nearly 20 times the revenue the company earned in Italy during the relevant period, and plans to appeal.
The Garante has mandated a six-month public awareness campaign in Italy to educate users about ChatGPT's data collection practices.