How careful do you need to be when using AI?

There are thousands of AI tools out there. Yes, literally thousands. You probably have your favorites that you pick because they work for you - they meet your personal and professional needs. 

You’re using these AI platforms to create new things and make others better. So, how do you keep yourself and your data safe? Good question. - Thanks for asking. 

AI's Dark Side

Before we talk solutions, let's face facts. AI doesn't just provide solutions; it has a dark side. What potential dangers are waiting for you? 

• Identity theft: Get careless online? Leave digital crumbs? Suddenly, someone’s you. This can lead to emotional distress, and even financial losses in case of Account Takeover (ATO). 
• Data leaks: Your private info, or company data, spilled for all to see. Not a good show. Think tainted reputation and legal messes. 
• Biased AI: AI learns from data. If that data is biased, the AI is too. This just feeds existing inequalities. We don't want that.

Your AI Safety Plan

So, how do you stay safe in this AI world?

• Know your stuff: Knowledge is key. Stay updated on good data practices. Follow the news. Read. Keep learning.
• Use GDPR-friendly tools: Use AI that respects GDPR - EU’s data law, which has also shaped data protection rules elsewhere, like in Kenya and South Africa. 
• Rethink 'free' AI: If you are not paying for the product, you the product. Though not universal, some free tools train on your data. This puts your info, especially Personally Identifiable Information (PII), at risk.
• Scrub your prompts: We feed AI lots of info for better results. But keep personal details out. No full names. No addresses. No bank details. Don’t make it easy to identify anyone.
• Read the fine print: Those privacy policies? Yeah, they’re long. Read them anyway. Know what data you’re giving up. Make smart choices.
• Set company AI policies: If you have a team, create clear AI guidelines. This cuts down risks. Everyone knows how to use AI safely.
• Pick platforms that are upfront: Take Google's Gemini. Your data and prompts? That's your business, and stays in your Workspace. It all follows your agreement and their secure cloud setup. Best part? Gemini respects the permissions you've already put in place. No funny business.