The Dutch business community considers itself insufficiently equipped for the use of algorithms that process personal data. This is according to a survey conducted by the Autoriteit Persoonsgegevens (AP) among 1,600 companies. The majority of these companies are not entirely sure whether they use algorithms to process personal data. And when they use algorithms to do so, they often do not know exactly what kind of algorithms they are using. The AP is therefore going to work with the business community to provide education and practical tools.
Algorithms, including AI, are changing the way companies work and interact with customers and their personal data, creating new challenges. For example, a company can make automated decisions about customers without a human being involved. Companies report knowing too little about the rules and risks. They are also often dependent on suppliers or other external parties when purchasing software that works with algorithms, for example. This not only affects how companies purchase, it also ensures insufficient control over risks of use.
As a result of the results, the AP engaged with these companies in a meeting. This resulted in a number of follow-up steps. For example, the AP will publish and consult more often on practical tools on the responsible use of algorithms. One example is the recent consultation on how companies can ensure that there is meaningful human intervention in algorithmic decision-making .. The AP is also working on a checklist for companies to properly handle the rights of people about whom they make such algorithmic decisions.
Monique Verdier, vice president AP: "Awareness and knowledge about algorithms, AI and its impact is essential, because it allows you as a company management to make informed decisions that are good for your company, employees and customers. We see that there is a lot of enthusiasm to gain more knowledge, but also recognize the need for guidance from the regulator. We are happy to take up this gauntlet together with companies."
The AP will further engage with companies to gather best practices on setting up and designing algorithms that process personal data. The AP is also taking a close look at the responsibility of suppliers and there will be education about the procurement of algorithms. If companies already think critically during the procurement process about the purpose for which they want to use algorithms and are aware of risks involved, they can prevent adverse consequences for their customers, for example.
Read the executive summary or download the entire report
Under the AI regulation, anyone working with AI systems within or on behalf of an organization must not only have skills, knowledge and understanding of the technical operation of AI systems, but also the social, ethical and practical aspects. The AP recently published the document "Getting Started with AI Literacy to help organizations get started.
