•    Webinar to shine a light on the rise of AI at home and work
•    Data protection expert lifts the lid on privacy concerns AI brings 
•    New laws evolve the way our personal data is handled 

The Oil & Gas Technology Centre (OGTC) will launch the first of its Tech20 Virtual series with ‘Artificial Intelligence vs Data Privacy: a 21st century David and Goliath story’, taking place Friday 3 April, 11:00-12:00 GMT.

The webinar launch marks a move by the OGTC to bring as much of its event activity online as possible, allowing even more people to learn, connect and share knowledge - making the new Tech20 series more accessible than ever.

This session will explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is shaping the way we live and work, including the rise of connected home devices, whilse creating new privacy challenges. This will be followed by a deep-dive into data protection laws and GDPR requirements in context for innovators. 

The webinar will follow the fast-paced structure of the traditional Tech20 events, featuring a 20-minute presentation from Ross McKenzie, a partner at Addleshaw Goddard LLP, followed by a 20-minute Q&A session.

Ross will share insights from his decade-long experience advising the country's best-known brands on technology innovation. A qualified data protection practitioner, Ross has a particular expertise in the energy industry, advising digital technology companies on how they can maximize value in IP and data. 

Ross commented: 
“We live in a fast-moving world fuelled by artificial intelligence that relies on our personal data which enables quicker decision making. However, at times our privacy can feel like it is held at ransom to unlock services that we want to use. Undoubtedly, the GDPR has brought about much greater scrutiny of new technology which is welcome, but it should not be seen as a regime to inhibit new innovation.”
  
The webinar follows the release of a study  this month that found the majority of the world’s security leaders are preparing for AI-powered cyber-attacks. Worryingly, 77% of respondents said that they expect weaponised AI to lead to an increase in the scale and speed of attacks leading to business and personal data becoming compromised.

Stephen Sheal (pictured above), External Relations Director at OGTC, said: 
“The OGTC is committed to developing and deploying new technology that supports the industry’s continued drive to a digital future, which is fundamentally changing the way we work.

“This has been brought into sharp focus over the past few weeks and why this first webinar is particularly relevant to us all. It shines a light on how AI has become embedded in our daily lives, offering us unprecedented levels of efficiency and personalisation – however it does come with potential security and privacy risks.

“With the volume of people now working remotely, using technology from video-conferencing to smart devices to password-protected cloud software, the need to manage cybersecurity carefully has taken on even greater importance. 

“We look forward to sharing the insights around this very interesting subject, ensuring our Tech20’s continue to provide a platform for connecting and sharing – no matter what our location or circumstance.”

The OGTC’s weekly Tech20 events are open to everyone of all ages, from all industries and professions and are free to attend online. Register today to learn more about our need to innovate whilse protecting our privacy and participate in this thought-provoking discussion. 

Book your place today here, or get in touch with events@theOGTC.com. 

If you have news or commentary you would like to share, please contact us and we will be in touch.