AI features disabled on MEP tablets amid European Parliament security concerns

The European Parliament has disabled AI features on the tablets it provides to lawmakers, citing cybersecurity and data protection concerns. Built-in AI tools like writing and virtual assistants have been disabled, while third-party apps remain mostly unaffected.

The decision follows an assessment highlighting that some AI features send data to cloud services rather than processing it locally.

Lawmakers have been advised to take similar precautions on their personal devices. Guidance includes reviewing AI settings, disabling unnecessary features, and limiting app permissions to reduce exposure of work emails and documents.

Officials stressed that these measures are intended to prevent sensitive data from being inadvertently shared with service providers.

The move comes amid broader European scrutiny of reliance on overseas digital platforms, particularly US-based services. Concerns over data sovereignty and laws like the US Cloud Act have amplified fears that personal and sensitive information could be accessed by foreign authorities.

AI tools, which require extensive access to user data, have become a key focus in ongoing debates over digital security in the EU.

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