Ai stealing data: Nowadays we are all associated with AI techniques in some form or the other, whether it is AI assistants like Chatgpt or Microsoft Copilot or our fitness tracking through smartwatch. While these technologies make our life easier, they also raise serious questions on our privacy. Christopher Ramadan, Assistant Professor of Cybercharity at West Virginia University, has done research on how modern AI systems gather our personal information and how can we protect our privacy from them.

How do AI tools gather your information?

Christopher explains that whatever you write in a chatgpt and Google Gemini like generative AI – the question, answer, or suggestion – all of them are recorded and are used to improve the model. Although platforms like Openai give you the option not to use data for training, your input information is definitely stored. Many companies claim that they do your data anonymised but there is always a risk that they may be recognized again.

Predictive AI and Social Media

Apart from generative AI, social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok also constantly analyze your behavior. Every post, photos, videos, likes, shares, comment even how long you saw something, all these information AI helps the AI ​​system to make a digital profile of you. Smart devices such as smartwatch, fitness trackers and home speakers also continuously collect data from biometric data, voice recognition, and location tracking.

Danger on your privacy

Ramadan says that the data of AI tools is often stored in the cloud. This means that a third party can also reach that data. Information recorded from smartwatch or voice devices is used in improving AI algorithm or creating a user profile. This directly affects data privacy laws and safety of the user.

How safe is your information?

The biggest problem is lack of transparency. People do not know which data their data is being collected, how it is being used and with whom is being shared. Companies make a privacy policy written in complex language, which are difficult for common users to read and understand. According to a report, on average, people read Terms of Service in just 73 seconds and do “Agree” while it can take more than 30 minutes to understand it properly.

AI companies may be reliable, but their data centers are not completely safe from the danger of cyber attacks. Hackers or foreign agencies can steal your sensitive information by targeting these devices and servers.

What should be done to protect your privacy?

Ramadan gives some important suggestions

  • Never put personal information in AI tools like name, date of birth, address, base/PAN number etc.

  • Do not share confidential information while using AI in the office, such as business secrets or client data.

  • Never tell AI tools that you do not like to make public.

  • Stop if smart devices are not needed. It is not enough to be in “Sleep Mode” only. The devices are often heard in the background.

  • Read the privacy policy carefully. Know what you have already given permission.

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