In this article, the authors discuss the increasing role of
artificial intelligence (AI) in consumer lending (focusing on the
risks it presents), assess how the Consumer Finance Protection
Bureau has approached these risks compared to other federal
agencies, and provide recommendations for banks that use AI in
consumer lending on reducing the risks associated with AI.
Over the last several decades, banks have increasingly used
algorithms to assist with underwriting consumer loans.1
Incorporating more data than ever before, AI has further enhanced
the efficiency, speed, and personalization at which loans are
made.2 The influx of AI has led consumer groups to
express concerns with the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau (CFPB)
on necessary protections for consumers. Commentators have noted
that AI can pose risks, such as lack of transparency and
explainability, unintended outcomes, and biases introduced from
incomplete or historical data. Thus far, the CFPB has, among