Associations Challenge CNAF's Anti-Fraud Algorithm in Council of State Appeal
Fifteen associations, including Amnesty International and the Abbé Pierre Foundation, have filed an appeal with the Council of State against the National Family Allowance Fund (CNAF), seeking the removal of an algorithm designed to detect fraud and undue payments among beneficiaries. The appeal, lodged on Tuesday, highlights concerns over the algorithm's surveillance capabilities and its potential discriminatory impact on vulnerable individuals.
The algorithm assigns each beneficiary a 'suspicion score' based on various personal data points, which influences the likelihood of them being subjected to control. This tool analyzes the data of over 32 million individuals receiving CAF benefits, with critics arguing that it disproportionately targets those with low incomes, the unemployed, and recipients of social assistance such as the active solidarity income (RSA) and the disabled adult allowance (AAH).
The associations assert that the algorithm exacerbates the challenges faced by already marginalized groups, leading to increased scrutiny and control over their benefits. Katia Roux, a Technology and Human Rights advocacy officer at Amnesty, noted that the CNAF has not responded to their previous requests to halt the algorithm's use, resulting in what they perceive as an implicit refusal.
CNAF Defends Algorithm as Necessary for Error Reduction
The algorithm, in use since 2011, aims to identify beneficiaries most likely to make errors in their declarations, particularly among the 13.5 million individuals who receive social benefits. CNAF's director general, Nicolas Grivel, emphasized that the tool is not discriminatory but rather a means to mitigate reporting errors that can lead to undue payments. He stated that the algorithm targets those whose income fluctuates, which can complicate the reporting process.
Grivel acknowledged that families in precarious situations often face complex life circumstances that increase their risk of making errors. He assured that the CNAF would comply with any changes mandated by the Council of State regarding the algorithm's use. The ongoing debate raises critical questions about the balance between fraud prevention and the fair treatment of vulnerable populations within the social welfare system.
