August 25, 2025
Artificial intelligence (AI) is generating massive buzz—and for good reason. Cutting-edge tools like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot are revolutionizing how businesses operate. From crafting content and handling customer inquiries to drafting emails, summarizing meetings, and even assisting with coding and spreadsheets, AI is transforming productivity.
However, while AI can dramatically save time and boost efficiency, improper use can lead to serious risks—especially concerning your company’s data security.
Even small businesses face these threats.
Understanding the Risk
The technology itself isn’t the problem—it’s how it’s used. When employees input sensitive information into public AI platforms, that data could be stored, analyzed, or even used to train future AI models. This creates a hidden danger where confidential or regulated info might be unintentionally exposed.
For instance, in 2023, Samsung engineers accidentally leaked internal source code into ChatGPT. This breach was so serious that Samsung banned public AI tools company-wide, as reported by Tom's Hardware.
Imagine this happening in your own office—an employee pastes client financial records or medical data into ChatGPT to "help summarize," unaware of the risks. In moments, sensitive information becomes vulnerable.
Emerging Threat: Prompt Injection Attacks
Beyond accidental leaks, hackers are exploiting a sophisticated method called prompt injection. They embed malicious commands inside emails, transcripts, PDFs, or even YouTube captions. When AI tools process this content, they can be manipulated into revealing sensitive data or performing unauthorized actions.
Simply put, AI unwittingly aids attackers.
Why Small Businesses Are Especially at Risk
Many small businesses lack internal oversight of AI usage. Employees often adopt AI tools independently, with good intentions but without clear policies. They mistakenly believe AI platforms are just advanced search engines, unaware that shared data might be permanently stored or accessed by others.
Few organizations have established guidelines or training to ensure safe AI practices.
Take Control: Four Essential Steps
You don’t have to ban AI—but you must manage it wisely.
Start with these four actions:
1. Develop a clear AI usage policy.
Specify approved tools, define which data is off-limits, and designate a point of contact for questions.
2. Train your team.
Educate employees about the risks of public AI tools and explain how threats like prompt injection operate.
3. Adopt secure AI platforms.
Encourage use of business-grade solutions like Microsoft Copilot that prioritize data privacy and compliance.
4. Monitor AI usage closely.
Keep track of AI tools in use and consider restricting access to public AI services on company devices if necessary.
Final Thoughts
AI is a powerful tool that’s here to stay. Companies that master safe AI practices will gain a competitive edge, while those ignoring risks expose themselves to hackers, regulatory breaches, and costly data leaks. Just a few careless keystrokes can jeopardize your business.
Let's discuss how to secure your AI usage effectively. We’ll guide you in crafting a robust, secure AI policy that protects your data without hindering your team’s productivity. Call us at 336-904-2445 or click here to schedule your 15-Minute Discovery Call today.
