As artificial intelligence platforms like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot become fixtures in the modern workplace, HR leaders face a new and complex challenge: harassment complaints drafted by AI.

Presenting recently at the DisruptHR Calgary conference, Tasia Presber—an associate in Gowling WLG’s Employment, Labour & Equalities Group and former HR manager—underscored the significant implications for HR teams, emphasizing the need to remain vigilant and proactive. Specifically, she highlighted three areas of key concern: 

  • Privacy: Sensitive data shared with AI platforms may not be secure, raising questions about where the information is stored and how it is used. 
  • Authenticity and truthfulness: AI-generated complaints can be overly polished or even misleading, making it harder for HR to assess the true situation and respond effectively. 
  • Legal and policy risks: These AI-crafted complaints present significant legal and management challenges, including questions of credibility, data handling and the risk of misuse.

    • To navigate these issues, Tasia encouraged organizations to review and update their HR policies to address the possibility of AI-assisted complaints and suggested templates or checklists to help employees articulate genuine concerns. With AI here to stay, it’s critical that HR professionals strike the right balance between technological convenience and the integrity of workplace processes. 

    Click here to view Tasia’s full DisruptHR presentation (approximately 5 minutes)

    For additional questions about artificial intelligence in your workplace, or to request a review of your harassment, workplace violence or privacy policies, please contact a member of our Employment, Labour & Equalities Group.