5 Privacy Tips for Using AI Tools

Published Date : 01/01/2025 

AI tools, like OpenAI's ChatGPT, are increasingly popular. However, they pose significant privacy risks. Discover 5 tips to safeguard your personal data while using these tools. 

The use of AI tools and products is on the rise, with companies rolling out AI chatbots for various purposes, from writing essays to managing daily routines.

These tools, often in the form of large language models (LLMs) like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, are transforming the way we interact with technology.

However, they also pose significant privacy risks.

According to a recent survey, over 70% of users interact with AI tools without fully understanding the dangers of sharing personal information.

At least 38% of users inadvertently reveal sensitive details, putting themselves at risk of identity theft and fraud.

These LLMs are trained on vast amounts of data, often gathered by indiscriminate scraping from the internet, which can lead to the regurgitation of personal user data.

Beware of Social Media Trends

A recent trend on social media encouraged users to ask AI chatbots to 'Describe my personality based on what you know about me.' Users were prompted to share details like their birthdate, hobbies, or workplace.

This information can be pieced together, leading to identity theft or account recovery scams.

Risky Prompt “I was born on December 15th and love cycling—what does that say about me?”

Safer Prompt “What might a December birthday suggest about someone’s personality?”

Do Not Share Identifiable Personal Data

Experts from TRG Datacenters advise users to frame their queries more broadly to protect their privacy.

Risky Prompt “I was born on November 15th—what does that say about me?”

Safer Prompt “What are traits of someone born in late autumn?”

Avoid Disclosing Sensitive Information About Your Children

Parents can unintentionally share sensitive details, such as their child’s name, school, or routine, while interacting with AI chatbots.

This information can be exploited to target children.

Risky Prompt “What can I plan for my 8-year-old at XYZ School this weekend?”

Safer Prompt “What are fun activities for young children on weekends?”

Never Share Financial Details

According to a report by the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC), over 32% of identity theft cases stem from online data sharing, including financial information.

Risky Prompt “I save $500 per month.

How much should I allocate to a trip?”

Safer Prompt “What are the best strategies for saving for a vacation?”

Refrain from Sharing Personal Health Information

Health data is frequently exploited in data breaches, so it’s crucial to avoid sharing personal medical histories or genetic risks with AI chatbots.

Risky Prompt “My family has a history of [condition]; am I at risk?”

Safer Prompt “What are common symptoms of [condition]?”

Additional Tips to Stay Safe Online

- Avoid Combining Identifiable Details Do not mix personal information in your queries (e.g., name, birthdate, and workplace).

- Choose Platforms with Strong Privacy Features Opt for platforms that offer features like data deletion after sessions.

- Ensure Compliance with Data Protection Laws Make sure the AI platform complies with GDPR, HIPAA, or similar data protection laws.

- Check for Breaches Use tools like HaveIBeenPwned to check if the AI platform has been breached and if your data has been exposed.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of AI tools while keeping your personal data safe and secure. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS):

Q: What are LLMs?

A: LLMs, or large language models, are advanced AI systems like OpenAI’s ChatGPT. They are trained on vast amounts of data to generate human-like responses.

Q: Why are AI tools a privacy risk?

A: AI tools can regurgitate personal data and are often trained on data gathered from the internet. This can lead to the exposure of sensitive information.

Q: How can I protect my children's data?

A: Avoid sharing specific details about your children, such as their names, schools, or routines. Frame your queries more broadly to protect their privacy.

Q: What should I do if I suspect a data breach?

A: Use tools like HaveIBeenPwned to check if your data has been exposed. If so, take immediate action to secure your accounts and consider reporting the breach.

Q: What are some privacy features to look for in AI platforms?

A: Look for platforms that offer data deletion after sessions, comply with data protection laws like GDPR and HIPAA, and have robust security measures in place. 

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