UK Spy Agencies Want to Weaken AI Data Usage Laws; Here's Their Proposed Changes

U.K. spy agencies are now asking the government to weaken laws on AI data usage. GCHQ (Government Communications Headquarters), M15, and M16 are lobbying the U.K. government to ease surveillance regulations they claim to be burdensome.

UK Spy Agencies Want to Weaken AI Data Usage Laws

According to The Guardian's latest report, M16, M15, and GCHQ explained that some surveillance laws are burdensome, preventing them from training AI models with large amounts of personal data.

Because of this, they decided to send their proposed changes, which will make it easier for them to use certain kinds of data.

They specifically want to weaken the safeguards that regulate the use of large volumes of information known as BPDs (bulk personal datasets).

These U.K. intelligence organizations argue that people have a low or no expectation of privacy when it comes to BPDs.

They explained that BPDs are datasets that assist them when it comes to identifying possible terrorists and future informants.

GCHQ, M16, and M15 sent their proposed changes to David Anderson, a senior barrister, and member of the House of Lords.

Lord Anderson explained that the proposed surveillance law adjustments aim to replace existing safeguards, such as the requirement for a judge to approve the retention and examination of BPDs.

Tech Companies Unhappy With UK's Surveillance Laws as Well

Aside from GCHQ, M15, and M16, some tech companies are also unhappy with the surveillance laws imposed by the U.K. government.

Recently, Computer World reported that Apple, WhatsApp, and Meta criticized the new U.K. surveillance regulations.

They explained that these laws are impossible to meet, arguing that the new safeguards will make the online world less safe instead of providing more protection.

To show that they are serious with their complaints, the three tech giants warned the U.K. government that they are prepared to withdraw their messaging apps from the market if the laws are implemented.

If you want to learn more details as to why Meta, WhatsApp, and Apple are complaining about the new U.K. surveillance laws, you can click here.