Microsoft Forges Deal with Teachers Union to Safeguard AI Privacy

Microsoft and the American Federation of Teachers have reached an agreement on safety and privacy when artificial intelligence is used in schools. The deal includes 10 legal enforceable protections, one of which prohibits Microsoft from using teachers' or students' data to improve an AI model, except in narrow safety and security circumstances.

The agreement was announced amid ongoing debates about the use of artificial intelligence in schools and concerns about how much time kids spend online. The American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten praised the deal, stating that it 'sets a high bar for child privacy and AI safety' and that Microsoft can be liable for a breach of contract if they violate the agreement.

Brad Smith, Microsoft vice chair and president, said that this standard will be extended to every school district across the country. The announcement comes after a report from a Cyber Safety Review Board detailed lapses by Microsoft that led to a targeted Chinese hack last year of top U.S. government officials' email, including Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.