We put too much trust in algorithms and it's hurting our most vulnerable

If the past few years have taught us anything, it's that algorithms should not be blindly trusted.

The latest math-induced headache comes from Australia, where an automated compliance system appears to be issuing incorrect notices to some of Australia's most vulnerable people, asking them to prove they were entitled to past welfare benefits.

Politicians and community advocates have called foul on the system, rolled out by Australia's social services provider, Centrelink. 

Launched in July, the system was intended to streamline the detection of overpayments made to welfare recipients and automatically issue notices of any discrepancies. Read more...