On March 19th we will discuss AI assistants (Alexa, Google, Siri, etc.), their privacy implications, and their regulatory framework (or lack thereof). While Alexa can help you order items off Amazon and Siri can help you make a hands-free call while driving, there is widespread controversy over what exactly these devices are listening to and what they are using this information for.
Our presentation will evaluate arguments in favour of and against regulating AI assistants by focusing on the benefits and risks of AI assistants, their respective user agreements, existing case law, and the current regulatory scheme.
To prepare for our presentation, please watch and read the following:
– https://sileo.com/alexa-google-siri-eavesdropping/
– https://video.wired.com/watch/how-to-control-what-alexa-and-google-assistant-do-with-your-voice-data
– https://www.nytimes.com/2018/05/25/business/amazon-alexa-conversation-shared-echo.html
Here are some general questions we would like you to consider:
– Do you think that AI assistants devices need to be regulated?
– Does the utility of AI assistants outweigh their privacy implications? Are you willing to sacrifice your privacy in exchange for the convenience of an AI assistant?
Laura Harrison, Crichton Scott, and Megan Young