Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept; it's a reality transforming how we work, communicate, and make decisions. It's becoming ubiquitous, from drafting emails to analysing complex datasets to managing customer support tickets.  79% of global companies report that they use AI, and 59% of companies in India adopt AI.

‍

However, as AI becomes part of our workflow, it’s important to understand the privacy and data security risks that come with its usage. Cybercriminals often target AI systems because the vast and complex data they process usually creates exploitable vulnerabilities.

‍

So, how do you protect yourself as an individual or business?

‍

What are some AI tools?

AI tools are applications or platforms that use artificial intelligence to assist users in various tasks. They can automate processes, provide insights, and enhance productivity. 

‍

Examples of AI tools

• Chatbots: Automate customer service interactions, providing instant responses to common queries. Tools like Intercom streamline support, Drift drives real-time sales conversations, and Zendesk Answer Bot offers AI-powered replies within helpdesk systems.
  ‍
• Virtual assistants: These help manage tasks through voice or text commands. Apple Siri, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant are widely used for setting reminders, answering questions, and controlling smart devices.
  ‍
• Language translators: Convert text or speech from one language to another, facilitating global communication. Tools like Google translate and Microsoft Translator handle quick and accurate translations.
  ‍
• Content generators: Create written or visual content based on prompts, aiding in content creation processes. Some common content generators are ChatGPT, Gemini and Jasper.

‍

Risks associated with using AI tools

Understanding the risks associated with AI tools is necessary for its responsible and secure use.

‍

1. Data privacy concerns

AI tools often require access to vast amounts of data, including sensitive personal information. If not properly managed, this data can be exposed through vulnerabilities in the AI system or during data transmission.

A recent analysis by UpGuard revealed that about 20% of companies that use AI train their models on user input by default. This practice raises concerns about the retention of user input and the exposure of confidential information through AI outputs. 

2. Inaccurate or biased outputs

AI systems learn from existing data, which may contain biases or inaccuracies. Consequently, AI-generated outputs can perpetuate these biases, leading to unfair or discriminatory outcomes.

3. Over-reliance and reduced human oversight

Dependence on AI tools can diminish critical thinking and human oversight. A study conducted by researchers from Carnegie Mellon University and Microsoft Research revealed that 62% of knowledge workers reported engaging in less critical thinking when using AI, particularly for routine tasks. Users might accept AI-generated recommendations without question, leading to errors or oversights. 

In sectors like healthcare or finance, such over-reliance can have significant ramifications, including misdiagnoses or financial mismanagement

4. Security vulnerabilities

AI systems can be targets for cyberattacks. The MITRE Attack framework highlights various tactics and techniques cybercriminals can use to exploit AI. Attackers may exploit vulnerabilities to gain unauthorised access, manipulate outputs, or extract sensitive data.

5. Data poisoning

This involves injecting malicious data into an AI model's training set, compromising its integrity and performance. This can lead to AI systems making flawed decisions or becoming susceptible to further attacks.

6. Ethical and legal implications

The use of AI raises ethical concerns, especially when decisions impact individuals' rights and freedoms. Issues such as a lack of transparency, accountability, and consent can lead to legal challenges. 

For instance, using AI for surveillance without proper oversight can infringe on privacy rights and result in public backlash.

7. Misuse for malicious purposes

AI tools can be exploited to create deepfakes, generate misleading information, or automate cyberattacks. Such misuse can spread misinformation, manipulate public opinion, or facilitate fraud.

‍

How to use AI tools safely

To maximise the benefits of AI while safeguarding your privacy and data, follow these best practices:

1. Understand the tool's data privacy policies

Before using an AI tool, review its privacy policy to know how your data will be used and stored. Some AI platforms may retain user inputs for training purposes, which could lead to unintended data exposure. 

For instance, certain AI chatbots store conversations to improve their responses, potentially compromising sensitive information if not properly managed.

2. Avoid sharing sensitive information

Don’t input personal, financial, or confidential data into AI tools, especially those that are cloud-based or publicly accessible. Even seemingly harmless information can be pieced together to reveal sensitive details. 

For example, providing your full name and address in a chatbot conversation could be exploited if the AI provider does not handle your data securely

3. Use trusted platforms

Opt for AI tools from reputable providers with strong security measures and compliance certifications. Established platforms are more likely to have robust data protection protocols in place. For instance, AI applications that comply with standards like ISO 27001 demonstrate a commitment to information security management.

4. Implement access controls

Ensure that only authorised personnel can access AI tools and the data they process. Implement role-based access controls to limit exposure of sensitive information. For example, in a corporate setting, restrict access to AI-generated analytics to relevant departments only, reducing the risk of internal data leaks.

5. Ensure regular updates and continuous monitoring

Keep AI tools updated to patch security vulnerabilities and monitor their outputs for accuracy and appropriateness. Regular updates often include security enhancements that protect against emerging threats. Also, monitoring outputs helps identify anomalies or biases in AI-generated content, ensuring reliability and trustworthiness.

6. Educate and train users

Provide training to users on the ethical and secure use of AI tools within your organisation. Educated users are better equipped to recognise potential risks and adhere to best practices. For instance, training sessions can cover topics like identifying phishing attempts in AI-generated emails or understanding the limitations of AI recommendations.

7. Employ data minimisation techniques

Only share essential information with AI tools and remove hidden identifiers from files before uploading. This practice reduces the amount of sensitive data exposed and minimises potential risks. For instance, before you submit a document to an AI summarisation tool, redact personal identifiers to maintain confidentiality.

Conclusion

AI tools offer powerful support for individuals and businesses. 

They simplify processes, spark new ideas, and introduce more efficient ways to work. However, that power comes with the need for caution. Know how your tools operate, think carefully about the information you share, and protect your data at every step. 

‍

AI should serve your goals without putting privacy or security at risk. When you use the right tools and make smart choices, you stay in control and get the best value from technology.

--

At Kora, our goal is to connect Africa to the world and connect the world to Africa via payments.
‍

For startups and businesses working in Africa, we provide All The Support You Need ™️ to start, scale and thrive on the continent. Sign up to see all the ways you can thrive with Kora.