Treat AI Chatbots Like a Public Forum
The golden rule of AI safety is to never input information you wouldn't want to be made public. Conversations with AI chatbots are often stored and can be reviewed by company employees or used to train future AI models. Think of it this way: if you wouldn't post
the information on social media or email it to a stranger, you shouldn't share it with a public AI tool. This includes sensitive personal details, private thoughts, or confidential work information. Always assume your inputs could be seen by others and act accordingly.
Never Share Financial or Personal ID Numbers
This might seem obvious, but it’s the most critical rule. Never provide AI tools with your credit card numbers, bank account details, UPI ID, Aadhaar number, PAN, or any login credentials. While you might be tempted to upload a bank statement for analysis or ask for help drafting a financial document, doing so puts your most sensitive data at risk. Scammers can exploit this information for identity theft and financial fraud. For personalised financial advice, always consult a qualified human professional, not a chatbot.
Review Privacy Settings and Opt Out
Most major AI platforms, like those from Google, OpenAI, and Anthropic, have data control settings you can adjust. Take a few minutes to find the privacy or data controls section. Look for options that let you opt out of having your conversations used to 'improve the model' or for training purposes. Some services also allow you to set your chat history to auto-delete after a certain period. Actively managing these settings is a simple step that significantly reduces how much of your data is stored long-term.
Beware of AI-Powered Phishing and Voice Scams
Scammers are now using AI to create highly convincing fake emails, messages, and even voice clones. An email might perfectly mimic the tone of your boss, while a phone call might sound exactly like a family member in distress, urgently asking for money. The key defence is to pause and verify. If a request feels urgent or involves sending money or personal details, hang up and call the person back on a number you know is theirs. Don't click links in unexpected emails; go directly to the official website instead.
Strengthen Your Account Security
Protecting your AI accounts is just as important as protecting your email or banking apps. If an AI tool requires you to create an account, use a strong, unique password that you don't use for any other service. Better yet, use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. Always enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever it's offered. This provides an essential extra layer of security that can stop unauthorised access even if your password is compromised.
Use Anonymous or Generalised Prompts
You can often get the help you need from AI without revealing sensitive specifics. Instead of uploading your entire resume with your name, address, and phone number, copy the text and replace personal details with generic placeholders like '[Your Name]' or '[Company Name]'. If you need financial advice, ask general questions like 'Explain how a mutual fund SIP works' instead of 'Review my investment portfolio statement'. This practice of anonymising your data allows you to leverage the AI's power while protecting your identity.
Keep Your Software and Devices Updated
Using outdated software is like leaving a door unlocked for cybercriminals. Regular software updates on your phone, computer, and apps often contain critical security patches that protect you from the latest threats. This is a fundamental part of good digital hygiene. Ensure your operating system and web browser are set to update automatically. This simple habit helps secure all your online activities, including your interactions with AI platforms, by closing vulnerabilities that attackers could otherwise exploit.
