April 28, 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 organizing grocery lists within budget constraints.
However, as these AI tools become integrated into our everyday 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 chatbots are constantly active, listening, and gathering data about you. While some may be more subtle in their approach, all of them are collecting data.
Thus, the critical question is: How much data are they gathering, and where does it go?
How Chatbots Collect And Use Your Data
When you engage with AI chatbots, the information you provide does not simply disappear. Here's how these tools manage your data:
Data Collection: Chatbots analyze the text inputs you provide to generate appropriate responses. This data can encompass personal details, sensitive information, or proprietary business content.
Data Storage: Depending on the service, your interactions may be stored temporarily or for longer durations. 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 information as OpenAI, along with your browsing history and interactions with other applications. This data might 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 the data can be kept for up to three years, even if you delete your activity. Google asserts that it will not use this data for targeted advertising, although privacy policies can change.
- DeepSeek: This service is notably more intrusive. DeepSeek gathers your prompts, chat logs, location information, device specifics, and even your typing patterns. This data is utilized to train AI models, enhance user experience, and create targeted advertisements, offering advertisers insights into your behaviors and preferences. Furthermore, all this information 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 raises concerns about consent and potential misuse.
Potential Risks To Users
Using AI chatbots carries inherent risks. Here are some factors to be aware of:
- Privacy Concerns: Sensitive information shared with chatbots may be accessible to developers or third parties, leading to possible 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 integrated into larger platforms can be exploited by malicious actors. Research has indicated that Microsoft's Copilot could be manipulated for harmful activities, such as spear-phishing and data exfiltration.
- Regulatory And Compliance Issues: Utilizing chatbots that handle data in ways that do not comply with regulations like GDPR can result in legal consequences. Some organizations 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 can help manage and mitigate risks associated with AI usage, enabling organizations to implement protective and governance measures.
- Stay Informed: Keep up to date with changes in privacy policies and data management practices for the AI tools you use.
The Bottom Line
While AI chatbots provide substantial benefits in terms of efficiency and productivity, it is essential to be cautious about the data you share and to understand its usage. By taking proactive measures to protect your information, you can enjoy the advantages 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 817-277-1001 to schedule your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call today!
