April 28, 2025
Chatbots like ChatGPT, Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, and the recently released DeepSeek have transformed how we interact with technology, providing help with nearly every task imaginable—from drafting emails and generating content to creating grocery lists that stay within your budget.
As these AI-driven tools become part of our daily lives, concerns about data privacy and security are increasingly important. What happens to the information you share with these bots, and what risks might you unknowingly face?
These bots are always active, always listening, and constantly collecting data about you. Some do so more discreetly than others, but make no mistake—they are all gathering information.
So the key question is: How much 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 just disappear. Here's how these tools typically handle your information:
Data Collection: Chatbots process the text inputs you give them to generate relevant responses. This 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, your location, and usage data. They may also share this data 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 information can be shared with vendors, used to personalize ads, or to train AI models.
- Google Gemini: Gemini logs your conversations to provide, improve, and develop Google products, services, and machine learning technologies. Humans might review your chats to enhance user experience. Data can be retained for up to three years, even if you delete your activity. Google states they do not use this data for targeted ads, though privacy policies can change.
- DeepSeek: This chatbot collects your prompts, chat history, location data, device information, and even your typing patterns. The data is used to train AI models, improve user experience, and create targeted ads that give advertisers insights into your behavior and preferences. All this data is stored on servers located in 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 consent and potential misuse.
Potential Risks To Users
Using AI chatbots comes with certain risks to be aware of:
- Privacy Concerns: Sensitive information shared with chatbots may be accessible to developers or third parties, which could lead to data breaches or unauthorized use. For instance, 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 shown that Microsoft's Copilot could be manipulated to carry out harmful activities like spear-phishing and data theft.
- Regulatory And Compliance Issues: Using chatbots that handle data in ways that violate regulations such as GDPR can result in legal consequences. Some companies have limited the use of tools like ChatGPT over concerns about data storage and compliance.
Mitigating The Risks
To protect yourself when using AI chatbots:
- Be Careful With Sensitive Information: Avoid sharing confidential or personally identifiable information unless you are sure how it will be handled.
- Review Privacy Policies: Understand each chatbot's data practices. Some platforms, like ChatGPT, offer options to opt out of data retention or sharing.
- Use Privacy Controls: Tools like Microsoft Purview help manage and reduce risks associated with AI use by allowing organizations to implement protections and governance controls.
- Stay Updated: Keep informed about changes to privacy policies and data-handling practices of the AI tools you use.
The Bottom Line
While AI chatbots bring significant benefits in efficiency and productivity, it's essential to stay vigilant about the data you share and how it's 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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