April 28, 2025
Chatbots such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, and the newly launched DeepSeek have transformed our interactions with technology, assisting with a wide range of tasks—from composing emails and generating content to organizing grocery lists within budget constraints.
However, as these AI-driven tools become integral to our daily lives, concerns regarding data privacy and security are increasingly pressing. What happens to the information shared with these bots, and what risks might you unknowingly face?
These bots are continuously active, listening, and gathering data about you. While some may be more subtle in their approach, they all engage in data collection.
This leads to an important question: How much of your data are they gathering, and where does it end up?
How Chatbots Collect And Use Your Data
When you engage with AI chatbots, the information you provide doesn't simply disappear. Here's a summary of how these tools manage your data:
Data Collection: Chatbots analyze the text inputs you provide to formulate appropriate responses. This data can encompass personal details, sensitive information, or proprietary business content.
Data Storage: Depending on the platform, your interactions may be stored temporarily or for longer durations. For example:
- ChatGPT: OpenAI collects your prompts, device information, location data, and usage statistics. They may also share this information with "vendors and service providers" to enhance their services.
- Microsoft Copilot: Microsoft gathers similar information as OpenAI, in addition to your browsing history and interactions with other applications. This data may be shared with vendors and used for ad personalization or AI model training.
- Google Gemini: Gemini records your conversations to "provide, improve, and develop Google products and services and machine learning technologies." Human reviewers may assess your chats to enhance user experience, and data can be retained for up to three years, even if you delete your activity. Google asserts that this data won't be used for targeted advertising, although privacy policies can change.
- DeepSeek: This platform is more intrusive, collecting prompts, chat history, location data, device information, and even typing patterns. This information is utilized to train AI models, enhance user experience, and create targeted advertisements, providing advertisers insights into your behaviors and preferences. Notably, this data is stored on servers in the People's Republic of China.
Data Usage: The data collected is frequently used to improve chatbot performance, train AI models, and enhance future interactions. However, this practice raises concerns about consent and the potential for misuse.
Potential Risks To Users
Using AI chatbots carries inherent risks. Here are some key concerns:
- Privacy Concerns: Sensitive information shared with chatbots may be accessible to developers or third parties, leading to possible data breaches or unauthorized use. For instance, Microsoft's Copilot has faced criticism for potentially exposing confidential data due to excessive permissions.
- Security Vulnerabilities: Chatbots integrated into larger platforms can be exploited by malicious actors. Research indicates that Microsoft's Copilot could be manipulated for harmful activities, such as spear-phishing and data exfiltration.
- Regulatory And Compliance Issues: Employing chatbots that process data in non-compliance with regulations like GDPR can result in legal consequences. Some companies have limited the use of tools like ChatGPT due to concerns about data storage and compliance.
Mitigating The Risks
To safeguard yourself while using AI chatbots:
- Be Cautious With Sensitive Information: Refrain from sharing confidential or personally identifiable information unless you are confident about its handling.
- Review Privacy Policies: Understand each chatbot's data management practices. Some platforms, like ChatGPT, offer options to opt out of data retention or sharing.
- Utilize Privacy Controls: Tools like Microsoft Purview allow organizations to manage and mitigate risks associated with AI usage, implementing protection and governance measures.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with updates and changes to the privacy policies and data handling practices of the AI tools you utilize.
The Bottom Line
While AI chatbots provide substantial advantages in efficiency and productivity, it is essential to remain cautious about the data you share and how it is utilized. By taking proactive measures to protect your information, you can reap the benefits of these tools while minimizing potential risks.
Want to ensure your business stays secure in an
evolving digital landscape? Start with a FREE Consult to identify
vulnerabilities and safeguard your data against cyberthreats.
Click
here or give us a call at 630-895-8208 to schedule your FREE Consult today!
