Vicki and Geraldine are joined by tech policy consultant and child safety expert Andy Burrows. In this episode, they discuss what generative AI like ChatGPT might mean for child safety, and some predicted future failings of the Online Safety Bill (OSB). 

Andy explains the potential disruptive power of 'generative AI' – artificially intelligent tools which produce content in response to user prompts – and considers whether this might be another case of technology moving too quickly for policymakers and parents alike.

Homework aides aside, how might AI technology work to facilitate harms like child sexual abuse imagery or financial scams? And need this AI 'arms race' among tech companies always be a natural disregard for safety and ethics? 

On the topic of the OSB, Andy believes that the opportunity to revisit and revise legislation is no excuse for lacking thoroughness in drafting stages – especially when it comes to the design principles behind technology.

And what will come in the wake of losing the OSB's stance on 'legal but harmful' content? Will we see more of a light touch approach from platforms when it comes to content which promotes misogyny or self-harm, and is age-assurance really the answer?

Finally, Vicki and Geraldine ask Andy about Ofcom's regulatory role. How will civil society work with Ofcom to recognise problems and provide solutions, and if success depends on Ofcom themselves doing a good job, who is responsible for holding their "feet to the fire"?

You can listen to this episode via Plink, Spotify, Apple, or Google.

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