British data protection commissioner takes a close look at hiring software

British data protection commissioner takes a close look at hiring software

London, 7/14/2022

The U.K.’s data protection commissioner is to investigate AI systems that check job applications to detect possible bias against minorities.

Experts have pointed out that such hiring software could unfairly reject people who use certain writing or speech patterns, such as those who do not have English as their first language.

The investigation will focus on possible racial discrimination inherent in some hiring programs. The ICO has received complaints that such schemes unfairly exclude applicants from different backgrounds.

The investigation, led by the U.K. Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), was launched as part of the agency’s new three-year plan under new Information Commissioner John Edwards.

On Thursday, Edwards said the inquiry will examine the impact of AI on humans, whose data is not always included in initial software development and testing.

In May, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission said AI tools used by employers to hire and monitor workers can discriminate against people with disabilities, potentially violating the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Last year, the EEOC launched an initiative to ensure that AI-based hiring programs comply with civil rights laws.