Was an AI involved in a decision about you? Here's how to find out (and push back).

Most of us will be on the receiving end of an AI decision at some point. Here's how to handle it.

1. Ask directly A simple question works: "Was any automated system or AI used in this decision?" Put it in writing if you can. Many laws now require a clear answer.

2. Ask for the key factors If the decision was adverse, ask for the specific reasons. In the US, the Fair Credit Reporting Act and Equal Credit Opportunity Act often require this for credit decisions. In the EU and UK, GDPR Article 22 and related rights cover automated decisions with significant effects.

3. Ask for human review For important decisions, you can usually ask a human to look again. Even where it is not strictly required, most companies will accommodate a polite, documented request.

4. Keep records Save notices, emails, and screenshots. If you later complain to a regulator, this evidence matters.

5. Know where to complain For AI in credit, employment, housing, or healthcare, you may have multiple routes: data protection authority, civil rights agency, sector regulator, or state attorney general. We maintain a directory by country and industry.