Kayne McGladrey, CISSP
360-648-7995
522 W Riverside Ave, #8558
Spokane, WA, 99201
United States
Presentation Abstract:
The EU’s new Product Liability Directive marks a transformative shift in how liability is defined for AI systems and digital products. This keynote explores the implications for technology companies as no-fault liability expands to include software and AI, and new criteria for defectiveness are introduced. With easier burdens of proof for claimants and extended liability to actors like online platforms and authorized representatives, the regulatory landscape has become more complex. This session provides practical strategies for navigating these changes, including compliance frameworks, security enhancements, and risk mitigation tactics. Attendees will gain insights into the directive’s key provisions and actionable approaches to meet its requirements while minimizing legal and financial exposure.
Detailed Presentation Description
The European Union’s revised Product Liability Directive introduces a significant shift in the legal framework for AI systems, software, and digital products. This keynote will guide attendees through the directive’s most impactful provisions and offer strategies to address its challenges.
The session opens with an overview of the directive’s expansion of no-fault liability to include digital products, such as AI systems and software. Attendees will learn about the directive’s broadened scope, its implications for technology companies, and practical solutions for mitigating associated risks. Case studies will highlight how organizations are addressing new compliance requirements through robust security controls, proactive updates, and legal collaboration.
Next, we will discuss the directive’s introduction of new criteria for determining product defectiveness, emphasizing compliance with safety regulations. Attendees will gain an understanding of these criteria, explore the challenges they present, and identify strategies for aligning product design and development with evolving compliance standards.
Finally, the keynote will review the easier burden of proof for claimants and the extension of liability to new actors, such as authorized representatives, online platforms, and fulfillment service providers. Participants will learn how to adapt by identifying liable parties, implementing contractual safeguards, and adopting comprehensive risk mitigation practices.
This session equips attendees with a clear understanding of the directive’s implications and actionable strategies to navigate this regulatory expansion effectively, reducing their exposure to liability while fostering innovation and compliance.
Educational Objectives
- Understanding Regulatory Changes: Attendees will gain insights into the key provisions of the EU Product Liability Directive, including no-fault liability, defectiveness criteria, and extended liability.
- Developing Compliance Strategies: Participants will learn practical approaches to align product design, security measures, and organizational processes with the directive’s requirements.
- Mitigating Legal Risks: The session will provide guidance on identifying liable parties, implementing safeguards, and adopting proactive risk management to minimize financial and legal exposure.
Testimonials
“I would have liked to hear more detail in the how and would have been OK with a longer session. Great content!”
“Outstanding session and a very good discussion about the importance and limits of GRC and overall risk evaluation.”
“Would have enjoyed a longer session to deep dive in more BOD communication.”
“This was a good session for me. Not too technical.”