Compliance

Class Action (AI Context)

Collective litigation by groups affected by AI system harms or violations.

Definition

Class Action lawsuits allow groups of individuals with similar AI-related claims to sue collectively. AI class actions are increasing across several theories:

  • Discrimination: Algorithmic bias affecting protected classes in hiring, lending, housing
  • Privacy: Unauthorized collection or use of data for AI training
  • Consumer protection: Deceptive AI marketing or unfair practices
  • IP infringement: Unauthorized use of copyrighted works to train AI
  • Product liability: Defective AI causing widespread harm

Class certification requirements (numerosity, commonality, typicality, adequacy) apply, though AI cases may face unique challenges around individual causation and damages calculation.

Sources

  • Federal Rules of Civil Procedure 23
  • Class Certification Standards