Get Ready for the EU AI Act: What You Need to Know and How to Prepare

The European Union Artificial Intelligence Act (EU AI Act) is one of the most significant regulations to impact businesses leveraging artificial intelligence (AI). As the first of its kind, this legislation sets new standards for how AI systems are developed, deployed, and managed, especially when it comes to data.

If your organization uses AI for critical functions like healthcare, finance, recruitment, or public services, the EU AI Act brings new rules that demand attention. From data governance to transparency, compliance isn’t optional—it’s a necessity.

In this blog, we’ll explore how the EU AI Act affects your business, why it matters for organizations outside the EU, and why effective data management is essential for compliance. Plus, we’ll introduce Gimmal’s 8 Weeks to Delete program, a simple, actionable way to get your data in shape and ready for the future.

What Is the EU AI Act?

The EU AI Act is the European Union’s effort to create a comprehensive framework for artificial intelligence. Its primary goal is to ensure that AI systems are safe, ethical, and aligned with fundamental human rights (Source: https://artificialintelligenceact.eu/).

To achieve this, the act divides AI systems into four categories based on risk:

1. Unacceptable Risk: These AI systems (e.g., government social scoring) are prohibited entirely.
2. High Risk: AI used in critical areas like medical devices, recruitment, or law enforcement faces strict regulations.
3. Limited Risk: These systems require transparency, such as notifying users they are interacting with AI.
4. Minimal or No Risk: Systems like chatbots or spam filters are largely exempt from regulatory demands

If your AI systems fall into the “High Risk” category, you’ll need to meet stringent requirements, particularly around data management, transparency, and compliance.

Why the EU AI Act Matters for Companies Outside the EU

Even if your business is based in North America or elsewhere outside the European Union, the EU AI Act could still impact you. Here’s why:

1. Global Reach of the EU AI Act

The EU AI Act applies to any organization that develops, deploys, or sells AI systems within the European Union, even if that organization is headquartered outside the EU. If your company operates internationally or provides AI-based products or services used in Europe, you’ll need to comply with the act’s requirements.

For example:

• A North American company selling AI-powered medical devices in Europe must meet the EU AI Act’s “High Risk” standards.
• A U.S.-based software provider offering AI-driven recruitment tools to EU-based clients must implement data governance and transparency measures to remain compliant.

2. The EU as a Regulatory Trendsetter

The EU has a history of influencing global regulations. Similar to how the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) set a new global standard for data privacy, the EU AI Act is likely to inspire similar legislation in other regions, including North America. Preparing for the EU AI Act now not only ensures compliance in Europe but also future-proofs your organization for emerging AI regulations worldwide.

3. Customer Expectations and Market Access

Consumers and businesses in the EU expect companies to meet high standards for transparency, safety, and ethical behavior, especially when it comes to AI. Non-compliance with the EU AI Act could damage your reputation, limit your ability to serve EU customers, and even lead to legal penalties.

By aligning with the EU AI Act, your organization demonstrates a commitment to responsible AI practices, which can strengthen trust with customers and partners globally.

Why Effective Records and Data Management Are Essential

At the core of the EU AI Act lies one critical element: data. It’s the foundation of every AI system, which makes managing it effectively more important than ever. Poor data management can lead to non-compliance, operational inefficiencies, and even fines of up to €30 million or 6% of your annual revenue (source: https://artificialintelligenceact.eu/article/99/).

Here’s why focusing on your data is the key to success under the EU AI Act:

• Compliance: Ensure your data meets the act’s requirements for accuracy, relevance, and proper governance.
• Efficiency: Reduce the time and resources spent managing outdated or irrelevant data.
• Risk Reduction: Minimize exposure to compliance risks by securely deleting unnecessary information.

For many organizations, tackling these challenges can feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with years of unstructured, redundant, or obsolete data. That’s where Gimmal’s 8 Weeks to Delete program comes in.

Why Act Now?

The EU AI Act isn’t just about regulation—it’s an opportunity to improve how your organization handles data. By acting now, you can:

• Avoid last-minute compliance challenges.
• Lower your risk of penalties and legal exposure.
• Create a more efficient, streamlined approach to records and data management.

With the 8 Weeks to Delete program, you don’t have to navigate these changes alone. Gimmal’s expertise in records management and compliance gives you the tools and confidence to meet the EU AI Act head-on.

Ready to Get Started?

The EU AI Act is a wake-up call for businesses to rethink their approach to data. It’s not just about compliance—it’s about building a foundation for long-term success in a world where data and AI are central to every organization.

With Gimmal’s 8 Weeks to Delete program, you can simplify your records and data management, reduce risk, and prepare for the future—all in just eight weeks.

Don’t wait—take the first step today. Contact us now to learn more about how 8 Weeks to Delete can help your organization thrive under the EU AI Act.

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