The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has published new guidance to help councils manage the growing volume of freedom of information (FOI) requests being generated using artificial intelligence.
FOI practitioners have reported an increase in AI-generated requests that misquote or misinterpret legislation, require significant clarification, or add complexity that places strain on already stretched teams.
Without clear support, the ICO warns, this trend risks causing delays, errors and increased complaints.
Deborah Clark, Upstream Regulation Manager at the ICO, said: ‘FOI practitioners have told us clearly that the rise in AI-generated requests is changing the day-to-day reality of their work. They are seeing higher volumes of requests, a greater complexity of request, and more cases that need careful clarification before they can be processed.’
The guidance covers practical issues including how to handle requests that misstate FOI legislation, manage higher volumes requiring clarification, and maintain fair and consistent handling regardless of how a request is created. It also provides example wording authorities can use to encourage more responsible and effective use of AI by requesters.
‘This guidance is about giving teams practical, sensible support, not adding new burdens. It does not change the law or create new requirements, instead it helps teams apply existing FOI principles consistently, regardless of how a request is created,’ Clark added.
