Research reveals the dangers of using AI without understanding the risks
Research shows that 70% of users interact with AI without fully understanding the risks of sharing personal information. A recent study identified nine major privacy violations, including misuse, manipulation, and unauthorized sharing of data. Even more concerning is that 38% of users unknowingly expose sensitive information, putting them at risk for identity theft and fraud.
Warning to AI tool users
Pay attention to social media trends
Trends like “Describe your personality based on what you know about me” may seem fun, but they also discourage sharing sensitive data like date of birth, hobbies, workplace, etc. may be encouraged. This information can be combined for identity theft and account recovery fraud.
Safer: “What does a December birthday suggest about a person’s personality?” Risky: “I was born on December 15th and I love cycling. What does that say about me?” Do you want to?”
Do not share identifiable personal data
Providing details like date of birth, favorite color, workplace, etc. can help cyber criminals bypass security measures. Frame your query more broadly.
Safer: “What are the characteristics of people born in late autumn?” Risky: “I was born on November 15th. What does that say about me?”
Avoid disclosing sensitive information about your child
48% of parents unintentionally share sensitive information like their child’s name, school, and daily schedule. This information can be misused to target children or invade their privacy.
Safer: “What are some fun activities for toddlers on the weekend?” Risky: “What can I plan for my 8-year-old at XYZ School this weekend?”
Never share financial details
According to the FTC’s Identity Theft Report, 32% of identity theft incidents result from online data sharing, including financial information. Avoid sharing exact numbers or patterns.
Safer: “What’s the best strategy to save for a vacation?” Risky: “I’m saving $500 a month. How much should I allocate for travel?”
Refrain from sharing personal health information
Healthcare data is frequently exploited for breaches, and more than 80% of healthcare breaches are related to vulnerabilities in digital platforms. Avoid sharing your personal medical history or genetic risks.
Safer: “What are the common symptoms of (condition)?” Danger: “My family has a history of (disease). Am I at risk?”
How to stay safe
Think before you share: Avoid combining identifiable details (name, date of birth, workplace, etc.) in your queries. Use privacy-secure tools: Choose a platform with strong privacy features such as “post-session data deletion.” Use a trusted platform: Ensure compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, or similar data protection laws. Monitor for breaches: Tools like HaveIBeenPwned will alert you that your data has been compromised.
Do you know some of the best athletic performances? Want to see some great teams in action?
Let’s take your help. It’s simple. Would you like to witness a wonderful performance? Want to hear about the top athletes and teams in our area?
Athlete of the Week and Team of the Week:
***********************************************************
Pancakes and waffles! This world-famous feature features the area’s top athletes. Please send us the candidates you would like to interview. here
A complete summary of college athletes! We want to recognize local student-athletes who compete at the collegiate level. Please send us information about local university athletes using our simple form. here
where are they now? We feature past athletes, difference-makers, and standouts in the sport who have excelled and advanced over the years. Do you know a former athlete, coach, or change-maker whose journey beyond sports in central Wisconsin should be shared by us? Submit information about past athletes and players who made a difference using our simple form here
Baked or fried! We also feature change-makers across central Wisconsin, including coaches, booster club leaders, administrators, and volunteers. Please send us the candidates you would like to interview. here
