Artificial intelligence platforms such as ChatGPT have revolutionized how we work, communicate, and innovate. However, with great power come significant dangers if these tools are not used thoughtfully. This guide offers detailed advice and best practices to help navigate risks and ensure secure AI usage.
While some tips are tailored specifically for ChatGPT, many can be applied broadly to other AI chatbots, enhancing their safe and effective use. Here are some essential guidelines:
1. Avoid Sharing Confidential Information
When using ChatGPT, avoid entering sensitive details like passwords, Social Security Numbers, personal identification numbers, or other confidential information. This prevents private data from being intercepted, stored, or misused by the system or third parties.
2. Use Secure Connections
Avoid using public Wi-Fi unless paired with a Virtual Private Network to add an extra security layer.
3. Consider Opting Out Of Model Improvement
Consider disabling model improvement in settings to prevent conversations from being used for AI training. Use the delete all chats option in ChatGPT settings to permanently remove past conversations from servers. Additionally, turn off chat history if you want to prevent future interactions from being saved.
4. Avoid Sharing ChatGPT Links
Shared links in ChatGPT allow you to share specific conversations via a generated URL. Avoid creating shared links for sensitive content, as anyone with the link can access it. If sharing is necessary, review the content carefully and revoke the link afterward to maintain privacy.
5. Manage ChatGPT’s Memory
Regularly review what the AI remembers about you by asking what it remembers about you. If you would like to reset all saved details, use the clear memories option in the settings. Again, avoid sharing personal information you would not want the system to remember.
6. Manage Your Data With Export Option
Use the export data option in ChatGPT settings to download a copy of your account information and chat history for review. This helps you understand what data is stored and verify its accuracy.
7. Use Strong, Unique Passwords And Enable Multi-Factor Authentication
Use a password manager to generate and store strong, unique passwords. Activate multi-factor authentication for your account to add an extra barrier against unauthorized access.
8. Log Out After Each Session
Consider logging out of your account when finished, especially on shared or public devices. This ensures others cannot view or access your active session and retrieve sensitive data or queries. For added security, use the log out of all devices option to log out of all active sessions across all devices.
9. Double-Check AI Outputs
Never unquestioningly trust and always verify critical outputs provided by ChatGPT, especially if they are used for professional or legal purposes. Cross-reference information with reputable sources to ensure accuracy and credibility.
10. Use A Builder Profile Wisely
For advanced users, when connecting with users of your publicly shared models, ensure your builder profile contains minimal personal information. Adjust privacy settings to control what users can see and interact with, maintaining professionalism and security.
11. Consider Privacy Enhancing Plugins
Install browser extensions like Privacy Badger to block trackers while interacting with ChatGPT. This helps ensure your browsing activity and data remain private.
12. Stay Updated On Security Policies
Review policy updates regularly to stay informed about new features, risks, or privacy practices.
13. Maintain Separate Accounts
Create different accounts for personal and professional use. This separation reduces the risk of cross-contamination between sensitive work data and personal interactions.
14. Beware of Phishing Attempts
Be cautious of emails or messages claiming to be from ChatGPT or other AI platforms. Verify the sender and avoid clicking on suspicious links to protect yourself from scams or malware.
15. Disable Autocomplete On Private Queries
Consider turning off autocomplete features in browsers and on devices to prevent accidentally revealing sensitive information. This is particularly important in shared environments or on public computers.
16. Confirm AI-Generated Visuals Do Not Infringe Trademarks
Search trademark portals to ensure AI-generated visuals do not unintentionally replicate existing trademarks, which could lead to legal disputes.
17. Trusted Models Only
Before using models, research the reputation and security measures of third-party tools. Grant access only to those with a proven track record and minimal required permissions. Use only trusted and verified tools, especially when dealing with custom or third-party models.
