April 28, 2025
Chatbots like ChatGPT, Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, and the recently released DeepSeek have transformed the way we interact with technology, assisting with nearly every task imaginable—from drafting emails and generating content to creating grocery lists that stay within your budget.
However, as these AI-driven tools become part of our daily lives, concerns about data privacy and security are increasingly difficult to overlook. What happens to the information you share with these bots, and what risks might you be unknowingly exposing yourself to?
These bots are always active, always listening, and constantly collecting data about you. Some are more subtle about it than others, but the fact remains—they are all gathering data.
So the key question is: How much of your data are they collecting, and where does it go?
How Chatbots Collect And Use Your Data
When you interact with AI chatbots, the data you provide doesn't simply disappear. Here's how these tools handle your information:
Data Collection: Chatbots process the text inputs you give to generate relevant responses. This data can include personal details, sensitive information, or proprietary business content.
Data Storage: Depending on the platform, your interactions may be stored temporarily or for longer periods. For example:
- ChatGPT: OpenAI collects your prompts, device information, location data, and usage details. This information may be shared with vendors and service providers to improve their services.
- Microsoft Copilot: Microsoft collects similar data as OpenAI but also gathers your browsing history and interactions with other apps. This data can be shared with vendors and used to personalize ads or train AI models.
- Google Gemini: Gemini logs your conversations to provide, improve, and develop Google products, services, and machine learning technologies. Human reviewers may assess your chats to enhance user experience. Data can be retained for up to three years, even if you delete your activity. Google states it won't use this data for targeted ads, though privacy policies can change.
- DeepSeek: This service is more invasive, collecting your prompts, chat history, location, device information, and even typing patterns. The data is used to train AI models, improve user experience, and create targeted ads, offering advertisers insights into your behavior and preferences. All collected data is stored on servers located in the People's Republic of China.
Data Usage: The collected data is often used to improve chatbot performance, train AI models, and enhance future interactions. However, this raises concerns about user consent and the potential for misuse.
Potential Risks To Users
Using AI chatbots carries certain risks to be aware of:
- Privacy Concerns: Sensitive information shared with chatbots may be accessible to developers or third parties, increasing the risk of data breaches or unauthorized use. For example, Microsoft's Copilot has faced criticism for potentially exposing confidential data due to excessive permissions.
- Security Vulnerabilities: Chatbots integrated into larger platforms can be exploited by malicious actors. Research has demonstrated that Microsoft's Copilot could be manipulated to carry out harmful activities such as spear-phishing and data theft.
- Regulatory And Compliance Issues: Using chatbots that process data in ways that don't comply with regulations like GDPR can result in legal consequences. Some companies have restricted the use of tools like ChatGPT over concerns about data storage and compliance.
Mitigating The Risks
To protect yourself when using AI chatbots:
- Be Cautious With Sensitive Information: Avoid sharing confidential or personally identifiable information unless you are confident about how it is handled.
- Review Privacy Policies: Understand each chatbot's data-handling practices. Some platforms, like ChatGPT, offer options to opt out of data retention or sharing.
- Utilize Privacy Controls: Platforms such as Microsoft Purview provide tools to manage and reduce risks associated with AI, enabling organizations to implement protection and governance controls.
- Stay Informed: Keep up to date with changes to privacy policies and data-handling practices of the AI tools you use.
The Bottom Line
While AI chatbots provide significant benefits in efficiency and productivity, it is essential to stay vigilant about the data you share and how it is used. By taking proactive measures to protect your information, you can enjoy the advantages of these tools while minimizing potential risks.
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