Data Privacy: What kind of data are the AI tools in your phone taking? It is very important to stop them..
Nowadays people use many types of AI tools in their daily lives, such as ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot or tracking their fitness with a smartwatch. While these technologies are increasing our convenience on the one hand, on the other hand, they are also raising serious concerns about data privacy.
How do AI tools collect data?
Cyber security expert Prof. Christopher Ramzan of West Virginia University explains that:
Generative AI (such as ChatGPT, Google Gemini): Everything you type in these tools, every question, answer, or command, is recorded, stored, and used for analysis. Although platforms such as OpenAI give users the option of not using their data in training, some personal information is still collected. Predictive data is also not completely safe, because in some situations it can be linked back to a person.
Predictive AI (such as social media platforms): Platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok record every activity of users, posts, videos, likes, shares, comments, and time spent, and create predictive models.
Smart devices (such as smartwatches, and smart speakers): These devices constantly collect data through biometric sensors, voice recognition, and location tracking.
Decline in data privacy: Data from smartwatches and fitness trackers can also be accessed by third parties. Many experts believe that storing voice recordings in the cloud is also a method of data collection, which can affect privacy laws.
Impact on data privacy
Lack of transparency: Many people do not know what data is being collected, what is being used for it, and who has access to it.
Complex terms of service: Companies' policies use technical language, which makes it difficult for common users to understand them. A study found that people read the terms in an average of only 73 seconds, while it takes 30 minutes to read them properly.
Threat of cyber attack: Companies and AI tools that store data may be vulnerable to hacking, data leaks, and state-sponsored cyber attacks.
Tips to keep data safe
Don't share sensitive information: Never enter your name, date of birth, Aadhaar number, address or office confidential information to chatbots or AI tools.
Turn off devices: Even devices that are in "sleep mode" are active and waiting for your commands all the time. Turn off or unplug smart devices during confidential conversations.
Read the Terms of Service: Understand the privacy policies of the apps or devices you use, you may have already agreed to many things unknowingly.
Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Amar Ujala. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.
