Ten critical things you should never share
In today's digital age, artificial intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT have become increasingly popular for their convenience and accessibility. From answering queries to providing guidance, these chatbots are revolutionising the way we interact with technology. However, experts caution against over-reliance on AI, particularly when it comes to sensitive information. Here are ten critical things you should never share with ChatGPT and other AI chatbots to protect your privacy and security.
1. Personal Information
Your personal details, including your name, address, phone number, or email, should never be shared with AI chatbots. Such information could be used to identify you, track your activities, or even compromise your safety. Protecting your personal data is vital in avoiding potential misuse or breaches.
2. Financial Information
Never disclose your financial details, such as bank account numbers, credit card information, or social security numbers, to any AI chatbot. Sharing this data can lead to financial fraud or identity theft, which can have devastating consequences.
3. Passwords
Sharing passwords with chatbots is a significant security risk. AI systems cannot guarantee the protection of sensitive login credentials, leaving your accounts vulnerable to hacking and data breaches. Always keep your passwords private and secure.
4. Secrets
AI chatbots are not human and cannot be trusted to keep secrets safe. Anything you share with a chatbot could be stored or accessed by others, potentially leading to unintended exposure of your confidential information.
5. Medical or Health Advice
Although chatbots may appear knowledgeable, they are not substitutes for professional medical advice. Avoid sharing health-related details, including insurance numbers or medical history, with AI chatbots. Consult qualified healthcare professionals for accurate and personalised guidance.
6. Explicit Content
Most AI chatbots are programmed to filter explicit or inappropriate content. Sharing such material may lead to account bans or unintended consequences. Moreover, once something is shared on the internet, it can resurface unexpectedly, potentially harming your reputation.
7. Anything You Don’t Want Public
Remember, anything shared with an AI chatbot could potentially be stored or shared with others. Avoid discussing topics or sharing details that you wouldn't want the world to know, as the internet often has a long memory.
8. Legal Advice or Sensitive Legal Details
AI chatbots are not legal professionals and cannot provide reliable legal counsel. Avoid sharing sensitive legal information or relying on chatbots for legal advice. Misinterpretations or inaccuracies could have severe consequences for your case or situation.
9. Proprietary or Business Information
Never disclose confidential business plans, trade secrets, or proprietary information to a chatbot. Such information could be stored or accessed, posing risks to your organisation's privacy and competitiveness.
10. Data You Haven’t Verified
Sharing unverified or false information with an AI chatbot can result in the propagation of misinformation. Additionally, relying on inaccurate responses from the chatbot could lead to poor decisions, especially in critical matters.
Why Should You Be Cautious?
Recent studies highlight a growing trend of people turning to AI for advice. For instance, Cleveland Clinic data revealed that one in five Americans has sought health advice from AI, while a Tebra survey found that nearly 25% of Americans prefer chatbots over traditional therapy. Despite this convenience, experts strongly recommend exercising caution and avoiding oversharing personal, financial, or medical details.
Final Thoughts
AI chatbots like ChatGPT are undoubtedly helpful tools, but they come with significant privacy and security risks. Always think twice before sharing sensitive information, and remember that some matters are better left to professionals or trusted individuals. By being cautious, you can enjoy the benefits of AI technology while safeguarding your personal data.
