How can I use AI tools safely and protect my

Think before sharing information

A prompt may be processed by an online service. Before pasting material, consider whether it contains personal, confidential, financial, health, school, or workplace information and whether you are allowed to share it.

Use the minimum detail required. Remove names and identifying information from examples, and never paste passwords, authentication codes, private keys, or other secrets. Check the service's current privacy settings and terms rather than assuming every product handles data the same way.

Treat generated content as unverified

AI output can contain factual errors, invented references, stereotypes, or unsafe instructions. Verify important claims with dependable sources and use a qualified person for high-stakes decisions.

Do not use generated media to impersonate someone, mislead an audience, or share another person's likeness without permission. Follow applicable school, workplace, platform, and legal rules.

Build a small safety check into your workflow

Before using an AI result, ask: Is it accurate? Is the information allowed to be shared? Could it expose or unfairly describe someone? Do I need to disclose AI assistance? Would a human review be appropriate?

For younger users, choose age-appropriate tools and follow guardian, school, and platform requirements. Product features and privacy controls change, so consult official documentation for current settings.

Tools mentioned

Official product privacy documentation. Features and availability can change; check each provider's official information before choosing a tool.

Frequently asked questions

How do I use AI tools safely?

Do not paste secrets, turn on the privacy settings you understand, and treat the output as untrusted until you check it.

Are chats private?

Not by default in every product. Some plans use chats for training unless you opt out. Read the current privacy settings.

Can I upload a client's files?

Only with permission and only to a product whose terms allow that data. A free chatbot is a poor place for confidential files.

What is a deepfake risk?

Someone can fake a voice or a face. Do not trust a surprising call or video that asks for money. Verify on a channel you already know.

Should students use a school-approved tool?

Yes if the school provides one. It is more likely to match their privacy rules than a random app.

Who is responsible for the answer?

You are, if you publish it or hand it in. The tool is not an author and not a professional adviser.

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