Is It Safe to Use Free AI Tools? Your Data Explained

 What Happens to your Data when using Free AI?

Have you ever used an AI chatbot to help you write a message? Or summarise a document?

Its super helpful, right? But have you ever wondered where your information goes?

Using free AI tools can make life much easier; however, you need to know What Happens to your data. This could include your chats, uploaded files and other information based on the provider’s privacy policy and settings.

This doesn’t mean that all free AI tools are unsafe, but you just need to be aware of what you are sharing.

Let’s take a look at What Happens to your information and how to keep your data private.

1. What Information do AI Tools Collect?

• When using an AI chatbot you may give away more information than expected.
• Depending on the service and settings used, the information that is processed could be:
• Your prompts (questions/commands/messages typed)
• Any uploaded documents (including documents, photos, spreadsheets & PDFs)
• Your account information (such as your email address, profile information etc.)
• How you’re using the service (device/technical information)

For example, if you were to upload your CV to an AI tool to help improve your application, your uploaded document will include your full name, phone number, email and work history.

Is all of this information really necessary?

2. Can Free AI Use My Chats?

This is one of the most common questions!

• Depending on the AI provider, policies and account type, some may use chats that meet the criteria to improve their models. Some services provide options that allow you to disable this.
• For example, ChatGPT allows you to disable ‘Improve the model for everyone’ on your personal account. This can be done by going to Settings > Data Controls. However, your chats will still appear in your history.
• Keep in mind that AI providers will have different policies. You should never assume that all free AI tools handle your chats in the same way.
• Before using any service, check the privacy policy. Look for any settings that mention model improvement.

3. Will Deleting My Chat Delete My Data?

Not necessarily.

Some providers may keep your information for a period of time after deleting your chat. This depends on the provider and their policies.

Also, disabling model improvement is not the same as deleting your chats.

For example, OpenAI explain that turning off model improvement will not delete your chats. You’ll need to manage your chats.

Tip: Always use the delete functions on any service. Also read up on how long their data may be kept.

4. What Information Should I Never Give to AI?

As a general rule, if you wouldn’t want the information to be seen then don’t paste it into a public AI chatbot.

Don’t give away:

• Login information (passwords)
• Bank information (account numbers, cards etc.)
• UPI PINs, OTPs
• Aadhaar, passports or other ID numbers
• Private medical information
• Confidential business information
• Other peoples personal information.

If you were to upload your bank statement, you’d want to delete or hide any personal information. This includes your name, account number and transaction history.

India’s CERT-In has advice on not providing sensitive information like login details and financial information.

5. Are Free AI Tools Safe?

Some free AI tools are provided by recognised companies who have clear privacy policies. Others may not be clear on who owns them or ask for unnecessary permissions.

Just because something is free, does not mean it is unsafe. And just because something costs money to subscribe to, doesn’t mean that it is keeping your data private.

Before using any unknown AI tools, make sure:

1. Who owns the site/application?
2. Do they have clear privacy policies?
3. Do they mention how they process your uploaded information?
4. Can you disable model improvement?
5. Are they asking for unnecessary access to your camera, microphone or files?

Only download apps from an official app store or trusted provider.

6. 5 Easy Tips to Keep your Data Private

You don’t need to be a tech genius to use AI tools more safely. Here are some tips.

1. Delete personal information

Before pasting any documents/messages, delete any personal information such as names, phone numbers, addresses and account information.

2. Check your privacy settings

Look at your AI account Data Controls. Check there are options to disable your chat history, model improvement, temporary chats and data deletion.

3. Use trusted AI sites

Only use AI tools from recognised providers. Don’t use unknown sites offering endless free AI tools with no explanation on how they process your information.

4. Be cautious when uploading

Don’t upload any private images, ID, bank statements or confidential work documents unless you’ve checked the privacy and security policies.

5. Check their privacy policy

You don’t need to understand any legal terms. Just check what information they collect, why they need it, how long they keep it and if they share it with anyone.

6. Can I Still Use Free AI Tools Safely?

Yes! You can use AI to help you write, learn, brainstorm, plan and answer everyday questions. Just be mindful about what information you give away.

Instead of giving away all your personal information, ask:

"Help me write a professional leave request for a family reason."

You won’t need to include your home address, employee number or any other personal information to receive a helpful response.

Remember that an AI chatbot is an online service. Only give away the information that you need.

Final Thoughts

Free AI tools can be very helpful. However, don’t give away your data carelessly.

Before uploading any documents or personal messages, take a second to consider what information you are giving away. Check the privacy settings, understand what the provider’s policies are and don’t give away any sensitive information.

You don’t have to stop using AI, but just be smart with it.

Be smart with your AI, give away less personal information and keep yourself safe online.