EU AI Act Takes Effect: Banning AI Systems with 'Unacceptable Risk'

EU bans high-risk AI like social scoring and biometric surveillance under its new AI Act. Fines for non-compliance.
Matilda
EU AI Act Takes Effect: Banning AI Systems with 'Unacceptable Risk'
The European Union has ushered in a new era of AI regulation, marking a significant milestone in the global effort to govern the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence. As of February 2, 2025, a key component of the EU's AI Act has come into effect, prohibiting the use of AI systems deemed to pose an "unacceptable risk" to individuals and society. This landmark legislation, years in the making, aims to balance the immense potential of AI with the imperative to protect fundamental rights and ensure ethical development and deployment of this transformative technology. A Tiered Approach to AI Regulation: The EU AI Act adopts a risk-based approach, categorizing AI systems into four levels of risk: Minimal Risk: AI systems with minimal risk, such as email spam filters, face no regulatory oversight. Limited Risk: AI systems with limited risk, including customer service chatbots, are subject to light-touch regulatory oversight. High Risk: High-risk AI systems, such as tho…