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 creating content to managing grocery lists within budget constraints.
However, as these AI tools become integrated into our everyday lives, concerns surrounding data privacy and security are increasingly coming to the forefront. What happens to the information you provide to these bots, and what risks might you be unknowingly facing?
These chatbots are continuously active, always listening, and consistently gathering data about you. While some may be more subtle in their data collection, all are engaged in this practice.
Thus, the pressing question arises: How much 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 share 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 can include personal details, sensitive information, or proprietary business content.
Data Storage: Depending on the specific platform, your interactions might be stored either temporarily or for longer durations. For example:
- ChatGPT: OpenAI gathers your prompts, device details, location, and usage data, potentially sharing this information with "vendors and service providers" to enhance their services.
- Microsoft Copilot: Microsoft collects similar data as OpenAI, along with your browsing history and app interactions. This information may be shared with vendors and used for ad personalization or to 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 enhance user experience, and data can be retained for up to three years, even if you delete your activity. Google asserts it will not use this data 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 data is utilized to train AI models, enhance user experience, and create targeted ads, providing advertisers with insights into your behavior and preferences. Notably, all this information is stored on servers in the People's Republic of China.
Data Usage: The data collected is often used to improve chatbot performance, train AI models, and enhance future interactions. However, this raises questions regarding consent and the potential for misuse.
Potential Risks To Users
Using AI chatbots comes with its own set of risks. Here are some concerns to be aware of:
- Privacy Concerns: Sensitive information shared with chatbots may be accessible to developers or third parties, potentially leading to data breaches or unauthorized usage. For instance, Microsoft Copilot has faced criticism for the risk of exposing confidential data due to excessive permissions.
- Security Vulnerabilities: Chatbots integrated into larger platforms can be exploited by malicious actors. Research indicates that Microsoft Copilot could be manipulated for malicious purposes such as spear-phishing and data exfiltration.
- Regulatory And Compliance Issues: Engaging with chatbots that process data in non-compliance with regulations like GDPR can result in legal consequences. Some organizations have restricted the use of tools like ChatGPT due to concerns about data storage and compliance.
Mitigating The Risks
To safeguard your information 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 the data-handling practices of each chatbot. Some platforms, like ChatGPT, offer options to opt out of data retention or sharing.
- Utilize Privacy Controls: Tools such as 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 benefits in terms of efficiency and productivity, it is essential to remain 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 (918) 770-9150 to schedule your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call today!
