AI-powered chatbots are a huge leap forward in technology, allowing users to have natural, quick conversations to gain information or new ideas. However, their use comes with significant challenges, most notably privacy and security risks. So be careful about the information you share with a chatbot.
In this article, we will mention the most important information that should be avoided sharing with these robots to maintain privacy and security:
First: Privacy risks associated with the use of chatbots
Chatbots like ChatGPT and Gemini rely on advanced language models known as large language models (LLMs). These models are trained using very large amounts of text data, and the bots process this data to provide accurate responses. But this heavy reliance on data makes them vulnerable to a number of privacy risks, including:
Data Leakage: Some companies collect data shared by users to improve their systems, and they may retain this data for a long time, making it vulnerable to leakage.
Server vulnerabilities and cyber attacks: Chatbots rely on cloud servers to store and process data. This makes them an attractive target for hackers who can exploit any vulnerabilities to access user information.
Sharing data with third parties: Even if AI developers promise not to sell data, sharing it with third parties for performance improvement or maintenance purposes increases the risk of disclosure. Some employees may also have access to this data, making it vulnerable to leaks.
Second: Information you should not share with chatbots
When using chatbots, read the privacy policies before you start using them, and avoid sharing any sensitive information, such as:
1- Financial details:
Some people turn to chatbots for financial advice or to manage their finances, but sharing sensitive details can lead to problems. When you share information like bank account numbers or credit card details, hackers can use this data to hack into your accounts. Even if the data is temporarily stored, any leak or security breach can lead to data theft or fraud.
Recommendation:
Instead of writing down the exact financial details, ask general questions like, “What are the best ways to save?” or “How do I create a financial plan?” If you need specific financial advice, use certified financial experts instead of relying on chatbots.
2- Personal and deep thoughts:
Chatbots are a popular way for some people to express their feelings or seek psychological support, but relying on them comes with a lot of risks. Chatbots are not equipped to deal with complex psychological issues or provide appropriate personalized advice, and they may suggest inappropriate or even harmful solutions.
On the other hand, the information you share could become part of training data, which means your secrets could be exposed or used inappropriately.
Recommendation:
If you need psychological support, find licensed professionals who can provide help in safe and confidential ways.
3- Confidential information related to work:
Chatbots have become a helpful tool for some employees to improve productivity, such as summarizing meetings or suggesting new solutions and ideas for work. But these uses can lead to significant risks.
Sharing confidential business information can result in sensitive data being uploaded to public servers. This data can be leaked or used in unauthorized ways. If information such as a company’s future plans or business strategies is leaked, it can be used by competitors.
Recommendation:
Avoid sharing any information related to confidential business projects or strategic plans with chatbots, and instead use native tools designed for the company.
4- Passwords:
Sharing passwords with any platform, including chatbots, poses a serious threat to digital security. When passwords are stored on servers, hackers may be able to access them in the event of a security breach. In May 2022, ChatGPT was hacked and user data was leaked, highlighting the weaknesses in chatbot security systems.
Recommendation:
Never share passwords with chatbots. Instead, use a password manager to create