Mark Webber on Law Firms Implementing AI and Complying with the US-EU Data Privacy Framework

Mark Webber is the US Managing Partner of Fieldfisher, a London-based international law firm with offices in Europe, the US, and China. An English lawyer living in the Silicon Valley, Mark oversees the firm’s US operations. As a recognized leader in privacy law with extensive experience working with the world's leading technology companies, Mark is known for finding innovative solutions to complex legal challenges. At Fieldfisher, Mark has been instrumental in establishing, nurturing, and expanding the firm's presence, operations, and services in the US.

In this episode…

Lawyers endorse the Data Privacy Framework as a valuable tool to mitigate cybersecurity risks. However, many experts argue that protecting businesses from other privacy risks — such as those posed by AI — is not enough.

The draft of the European Union AI Act has sparked debate among privacy professionals, with some advocating for a prohibition on the unrestricted use of AI technologies such as biometrics in real time. Mark Webber, a seasoned lawyer with expertise in technology and privacy, disagrees with this approach. He cautions against AI's high-risk threats to transport, infrastructure, and decision-making. To mitigate these risks, Mark suggests that companies conduct an AI impact assessment, such as the one developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, before implementing generative AI systems. He also warns that, given the ever-evolving nature of AI, any governing policies will only be effective with proper education and training.

In this episode of the She Said Privacy/He Said Security Podcast, Mark Webber, US Managing Partner at Fieldfisher, joins Jodi and Justin Daniels to discuss the US-EU Data Privacy Framework and AI. Mark explains how the framework will impact businesses, the European Union AI Act, the intersection of AI regulation with GDPR, and why organizations should consider implementing AI assessment frameworks.