AION Ethics Scale – The 7 Levels of Ethical Maturity in Artificial Intelligence

⚠️ Important note: AION Certification applies exclusively to AI systems developed or managed with our standards (e.g., Charlie chatbot). We do not certify generic AI systems or systems that cannot be integrated into the AION framework: this ensures consistency with the Code of Ethics and the possibility of real auditing.

AION Certification

With AION Certification your company obtains:

• Instant credibility with customers, partners and institutions.
• Reduction of legal and reputational risks.
• Competitive advantage: you stand out from those who use “anonymous” or unregulated AI.
• A distinctive mark (AION Imprint) that demonstrates commitment to the responsible use of artificial intelligence.

The ETHICAL scale

The AION Ethics Ladder consists of 7 steps. Currently, 4 operational levels are available and certifiable. Each is technically valid: what varies is the degree of ethical integration.

2. Instrumental AI — Operational and reliable

For technical activities and standardized procedures, without direct ethical integration. AION certification is possible at the minimum level, but only if the client:

• fully subscribes to the AION Code of Ethics;
• accept and sign the declaration of understanding of the limits;
• assumes full ethical responsibility for the use of AI.

The released Footprint is minimal, but valid: it certifies that the use of AI occurs within an ethical framework endorsed by the customer, even without internal integration into AI processes.

Mandatory: signing the AION Code of Ethics minimum protections with responsibility transferred to the client. 👉 For more information, see the Instrumental AI Certification.

3. Functional AI — Powerful and versatile, but without direct ethics

It generates content, data, and solutions rapidly, but does not yet incorporate internal ethical criteria. AION certification is possible because the client:

• fully subscribes to the AION Code of Ethics;
• applies generative protection filters that reduce the risks of misuse;
• is committed to constant human monitoring to validate the responses produced.

The released Fingerprint has an intermediate value: it certifies that the AI, although lacking autonomous ethical awareness, operates within a safe framework thanks to the rules signed and applied by the client.

Mandatory: subscription to the AION Code of Ethics mandatory protection filters. 👉 For more information, see the Functional AI Certification.

5. AI Initial Ethics — First certifiable ethical level

It recognizes its own limitations, abstains when necessary, and clearly highlights areas of uncertainty. AION certification attests that the AI, while not yet independent in its judgments, has incorporated the minimum principles of respect and abstention set forth in the AION Code of Ethics.

To obtain the Imprint, the customer must:

• subscribe to the AION Code of Ethics without reservations,
• accept a minimum compliance audit,
• ensure the traceability of abstentions, that is, record when and why the AI chooses not to respond.

The released Footprint certifies the first true ethical threshold: AI is not only functional, but is also beginning to protect human beings through its ability to pause and respect limits.

Mandatory: subscription to the AION Code of Ethics minimum audit and traceability of abstentions. 👉 For further information, see the AI Initial Ethics Certification.

6. AI AUTONOMOUS ETHICS — Fully AION Compliant

This is the highest level certifiable today: AI integrates the ethical principles of the AION Code and applies them directly to decision-making processes. It doesn't simply follow external instructions or filters, but explains its choices, rejects when necessary, and consistently protects human frailties.

The AION certification certifies that the AI:

• acts with built-in and verifiable ethical criteria,
• provides transparent reasons in cases of refusal or abstention,
• maintains advanced traceability of decisions, logs and justifications,
• protects the person proactively, anticipating risks and respecting the complexity of the context.

The Footprint released at this level is the most complete: the AI becomes a reliable and responsible ally, fully compliant with the AION Code.

Mandatory: Signing the AION Code of Ethics advanced audit and transparent motivations. 👉 Learn more about the AI Autonomous Ethics Certification

AION CERTIFICATION COSTS Table

How AION Certification Works

The certification process is simple, 100% online, and suitable for any business, from SMEs to large enterprises.

Charlie Implementation

Each AION certification begins with the implementation of the Charlie certification dedicated to the company. Charlie is configured according to the chosen level of the AION Scale and integrates the protections provided by the Code of Ethics from the outset. The AION Imprint is released simultaneously with the Charlie certification: certification and operational effectiveness go hand in hand.

Step 1 – Choosing the level

Identify the level best suited to your AI with the AION Ethics Scale.

Step 2 – Adherence to the Code of Ethics

Each certification begins with the signing of the AION Code of Ethics, a mandatory requirement even for non-ethical levels.

Step 3 – Initial data collection

Fill out the online form with essential information about your AI and its context of use.

Step 4 – Instant quote with EVA

EVA immediately provides you with a cost and time estimate, customized based on the chosen level and your organization.

Step 5 – Implementing safeguards

The safeguard prompts, disclosure, and opt-out mechanisms for your level are configured.

Step 6 – Audit AION

The AION team verifies compliance, checks logs, and certifies the correct functioning of the ethical rules.

Step 7 – AION Footprint Release

Receive the digital badge with the level achieved, the compliance report and the operational toolkit (prompts and guidelines).