FTC issues stern warning: Biased AI may break the law

In a blog post this week, the Federal Trade Commission signaled that it's taking a hard look at bias in AI, warning businesses that selling or using such systems could constitute a violation of federal law. "The FTC Act prohibits unfair or deceptive practices," the post reads. "That would include the sale or use of – for example – racially biased algorithms." The post also notes that biased AI can violate the Fair Credit Reporting Act and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. "The FCRA comes into play in certain circumstances where an algorithm is used to deny people employment, housing, credit, insurance, or other benefits," it says.