Artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots, like ChatGPT, are transforming the way we interact with technology. These tools, which can answer questions, write emails, and offer emotional support, are becoming increasingly integrated into daily life. Their ease of use and human-like responses make them a trusted resource.
However, experts caution that sharing too much information with AI can lead to significant problems and can compromise your personal life. This article provides guidance on what you need to know when using AI.
**Personal Information**
While it may seem harmless, sharing your full name, home address, phone number, or email can be used to build a profile of you online. Once this information is out there, it can be used for fraud, phishing scams, or even to track you.
**Bank Details**
Entering bank account numbers or credit card details into a chatbot can lead to data being intercepted, putting you at risk of fraud and identity theft. Only share your bank details through secure, official channels, not through AI.
**Passwords**
Never share your login credentials with a chatbot. Sharing your password, even in a casual conversation, can put your email, banking, and social media accounts at risk. Cybersecurity experts advise using a secure password manager to store your passwords, never sharing them in an AI chat.
**Health and Medical Information**
While it may seem tempting to ask a chatbot about symptoms or treatments, AI is not a substitute for a licensed medical professional. Sharing personal health data—including medical records, prescriptions, or insurance numbers—can create risks.
**Protect Your Documents**
Never upload identification cards, passports, driver’s licenses, or personal photos to chatbots. Even if you delete them, digital records can remain. Sensitive files can be hacked, misused, or used for identity theft. Keep your private documents offline or in secure, encrypted storage. Always keep your documents safe and avoid sharing them with AI.