Research Reveals Dangers of Using AI Without Understanding the Dangers
Research shows that 70% of users interact with AI without fully understanding the dangers of sharing personal information. A recent study identified 9 key privacy harms, including data misuse, manipulation, and unauthorized sharing. Even more concerning, 38% of users unknowingly reveal sensitive details, putting themselves at risk of identity theft and fraud.
To address these concerns, experts from TRG Datacenters have shared practical tips to help users protect their privacy while using AI tools.
Warnings for AI Tool Users
Beware of Social Media Trends
Trends like “Describe your personality based on what you know about me” may seem fun, but they can encourage you to share sensitive data like your birthdate, hobbies, or workplace. This information could be pieced together for identity theft or account recovery scams:
- Safer: “What might a December birthday suggest about someone’s personality?”
- Risky: “I was born on December 15th and love cycling—what does that say about me?”
Do Not Share Identifiable Personal Data
Providing details like your birthdate, favorite color, or workplace can help cybercriminals bypass security measures. Frame your queries more broadly:
- Safer: “What are traits of someone born in late autumn?”
- Risky: “I was born on November 15th—what does that say about me?”
Avoid Disclosing Sensitive Information About Your Children
Nearly 48% of parents unintentionally share sensitive details such as their child’s name, school, or routine. This information can be exploited to target children or compromise their privacy:
- Safer: “What are fun activities for young children on weekends?”
- Risky: “What can I plan for my 8-year-old at XYZ School this weekend?”
Never Share Financial Details
According to the FTC Identity Theft Report, 32% of identity theft cases stem from online data sharing, including financial information. Avoid sharing exact numbers or patterns:
- Safer: “What are the best strategies for saving for a vacation?”
- Risky: “I save $500 per month. How much should I allocate to a trip?”
Refrain From Sharing Personal Health Information
Health data is frequently exploited in breaches, with over 80% of healthcare breaches linked to digital platform vulnerabilities. Avoid sharing personal medical histories or genetic risks:
- Safer: “What are common symptoms of [condition]?”
- Risky: “My family has a history of [condition]; am I at risk?”
How to Stay Safe
- Think Before You Share: Avoid combining identifiable details in queries (e.g., name, birthdate, and workplace).
- Use Privacy-Safe Tools: Choose platforms with strong privacy features like “data deletion after sessions.”
- Stick to Reputable Platforms: Ensure compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, or similar data protection laws.
- Monitor for Breaches: Tools like HaveIBeenPwned can alert you to exposed data.
To explore more tips and insights, read the full expert commentary here.
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Author: David Keech
David Keech is a retired teacher and works as a sportswriter, sports official and as an educational consultant. He has reported on amateur sports since 2011, known as 'KeechDaVoice.' David can be reached at [email protected]
