April 27, 2025
Chatbots such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, and the newly launched DeepSeek have transformed our interactions with technology, providing support for a wide range of tasks—from composing emails and creating content to managing grocery lists within a budget.
However, as these AI-powered tools become more integrated into our everyday lives, concerns about data privacy and security are increasingly pressing. What actually happens to the information you share with these chatbots, and what risks might you be unknowingly facing?
These bots are continuously active, always listening, and consistently gathering data about you. While some may be more subtle in their approach, they all collect information.
Thus, the critical question is: 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 does not simply disappear. Here's a look at how these tools manage your data:
Data Collection: Chatbots analyze the text inputs you give to produce appropriate responses. This can encompass personal information, sensitive details, or proprietary business data.
Data Storage: Depending on the service, your interactions may be stored for a short time or longer. For example:
- ChatGPT: OpenAI gathers your prompts, device details, location data, and usage statistics. They may also share this information with "vendors and service providers" to enhance their offerings.
- Microsoft Copilot: Microsoft collects similar data as OpenAI, in addition to your browsing history and interactions with other applications. This information may be shared with vendors and used to tailor advertisements or train AI models.
- Google Gemini: Gemini records your conversations to "provide, improve, and develop Google products and services and machine learning technologies." Human reviewers might assess your chats to improve user experience, and data can be kept for up to three years, even if you delete your activity. Google asserts it won't use this data for targeted advertising, but privacy policies can change.
- DeepSeek: This tool is more intrusive. DeepSeek gathers your prompts, chat logs, location data, device details, and even your typing habits. This information is utilized to train AI models, enhance user experience, and create targeted advertisements, offering advertisers insights into your behaviors and preferences. Additionally, all this data is stored on servers in the People's Republic of China.
Data Usage: The information collected is frequently employed to improve the chatbot's functionality, train AI models, and enhance future interactions. However, this raises concerns about consent and the potential for misuse.
Potential Risks To Users
Using AI chatbots presents several risks. Here's what to be aware of:
- Privacy Concerns: Sensitive information shared with chatbots could be accessible to developers or third parties, posing risks of data breaches or unauthorized usage. For instance, Microsoft's Copilot has faced criticism for potentially exposing confidential information due to excessive permissions.
- Security Vulnerabilities: Chatbots that are part of larger platforms may be vulnerable to manipulation by malicious actors. Research indicates that Microsoft's Copilot could be exploited for harmful activities like spear-phishing and data theft.
- Regulatory And Compliance Issues: Employing chatbots that handle data in ways that violate regulations such as GDPR can result in legal consequences. Some companies have limited the use of tools like ChatGPT over concerns regarding 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 in how it will be managed.
- Review Privacy Policies: Understand each chatbot's data handling 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 reduce risks associated with AI usage, implementing protective and governance measures.
- Stay Informed: Keep updated on changes to privacy policies and data handling practices of the AI tools you utilize.
The Bottom Line
While AI chatbots provide considerable advantages in terms of efficiency and productivity, it is essential to be cautious about the data you share and comprehend 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 15-Minute Discovery Call to identify
vulnerabilities and safeguard your data against cyberthreats.
Click
here or give us a call at 1300 765 014 to schedule your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call today!
