ÖIAT Research

The Austrian Institute for Applied Telecommunications (ÖIAT) has been promoting the competent, safe and responsible use of digital media for more than 20 years. Together with our partners, we conduct research on current topics related to the digital world. On this page we provide an overview of past and current research projects.

Generative Artificial Intelligence and Consumer Protection


Coordination
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Funding
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Contact

Österreichisches Institut für Angewandte Telekommunikation (ÖIAT)

research@oiat.at
+43-1-595 2112

2024/082025/01
Artificial Intelligence Consumer Protection Discrimination & Bias

The project aims to investigate the extent to which generative AI technology affects Austrian consumers in customer-facing applications. It will analyze the potential impacts of generative AI on consumer experiences and identify relevant applications currently in use. Additionally, the project will develop case studies that illustrate the implications of generative AI on consumers; including the examination of the legal, economic, and societal implications associated with these applications. Lastly, the study will assess best and worst practices that may influence the effects of generative AI on consumer interactions.


The study aims to address the question: To what extent does the use of generative AI technology in customer-facing applications impact Austrian consumers, or could it have potential effects in the future?

Key goals of the project include:

  1. Detailed Analysis of Generative AI’s Impact on Consumers: Breaking down the potential effects of generative AI on consumer experiences and outcomes.
  2. Identification of Relevant Customer-Facing Applications: Building on prior project reports, the study will identify existing and potential applications of generative AI that interact directly with consumers, using real-world examples where applicable.
  3. Development of Case Studies: Creating case studies that illustrate the impact of generative AI on consumers to ground the analysis in practical examples.
  4. Examination of Legal, Economic, and Social Implications: Exploring the broader implications of generative AI in these case studies, including regulatory, financial, and societal aspects.
  5. Assessment of Practices Influencing AI’s Impact: Analyzing and evaluating best and worst practices that could promote or hinder the beneficial or adverse impacts of generative AI in customer-facing applications.