Yes, AI raises security concerns. But let's stay reasonable.
Understanding the Balance Between Generative AI Potential and Prudent Safety.
The rise of generative AI has been a game-changer, and with it, come mixed feelings.
While it offers incredible advancements, there's a growing apprehension about security.
It's not hard to see it online.
Detractors call for banning it.
Data leakage prevention companies try to adapt as much as they can by monitoring AI tools (that’s a good thing).
In the meantime, some AI promoters can't do anything without AI now.
One thing is sure: the conversation on AI is broken, and there’s little place for nuance. Let's settle this.
1. Generative AI: More Than Just Tech.
Remember, AI is fundamentally a tool.
Its impact is shaped by how we use and govern it.
Setting clear guidelines, educating users, and employing security protocols can make a world of difference.
We're in charge of how we deploy AI or set rules in our organisation.
With monitoring tools increasingly available (i.e. chrome extensions monitoring ChatGPT use on employee browsers), managing AI risks has become possible.
So, there's space for more than all or nothing approaches.
2. Not All AI Tools Are Created Equal.
It's a mistake to group all AI tools as uniformly risky.
Tools differ in their functions, contexts, and security levels.
For instance, ChatGPT offers the option to turn off chat history for better privacy.
And for organizations needing more control, ChatGPT Enterprise allows greater management over the AI's deployment.
There are also AI features added to vendors your company already uses (Microsoft Copilot for Office, Google Bard for Workspace, and so many more), which means there might be a contract with security clauses.
Finally, there are AI-powered SaaS all over the Internet, with unique security risks.
The main point is there no one “AI”.
Always evaluate tools individually, beyond the general noise.
3. Training: The First Line of Defense.
Knowledge is power.
Regular training and awareness sessions equip users to recognize and navigate potential threats associated with AI use.
Especially, employees should be taught how to protect company data (even if the organisation doesn't want to officially deploy any AI tool).
The safer and more informed the user, the more responsibly AI tools can be utilized.
4. Dig Deeper Before Drawing Conclusions.
Hearing that an AI tool is 'risky' might make headlines, but it's crucial to investigate first.
Check their security measures.
Do they have a trust page?
Can they explain how your data is protected?
Where might be their weaknesses? Lack of MFA? API misconfigurations?
Being factual is important.
Few people know that OpenAI's API, which powers most AI tools, is SOC 2 Type 2 compliant, indicating a high standard of security practices.
Data are permanently deleted after 30 days.
Which means that the scariest in using an AI tool on the internet might not be data being sent to OpenAI, but data saved in these tool's database.
Then, this becomes a more typical Shadow IT risk, that needs to be managed with appropriate controls and awareness campaigns.
The point is that when we look closer, it's not always the AI that's scary.
I’ll let ChatGPT conclude:
AI's presence is growing, bringing both opportunities and challenges.
By approaching AI with an informed and measured mindset, we can tap into its benefits and maintain security.
It's about staying informed, proactive, and looking at what's in front of us.
Other ways I can help you
ChatGPT Data Protection Masterclass: Learn the best ChatGPT security measures. Become good at using ChatGPT without compromising your sensitive information. You will have a safer use of AI. You’re already a pro? Share this course with colleagues who need it.
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