Chatbots like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and the newly released DeepSeek have become game-changers for businesses across the Gulf Coast, offering computer help for everything from drafting emails to managing projects. These AI-driven tools can save time and boost productivity, but as they become integral to your daily operations, questions about data privacy and cybersecurity are rising.

So, what’s really happening to the data you're sharing with these chatbots? And more importantly, what risks are you unwittingly exposing your Gulf Coast business to? Let’s dive into how these AI tools handle your data—and how you can protect your business with the right IT support.

How Chatbots Collect and Use Your Data

When you interact with AI chatbots, the information you share doesn’t just disappear. Here’s how some popular platforms collect and use your data:

• ChatGPT (OpenAI): Collects your prompts, device information, location, and usage data, which can be shared with vendors to "improve their services." If you're using these tools in your business, this data could be valuable to third parties.
• Microsoft Copilot: Along with basic information like your device data and prompts, it also tracks your browsing history and interactions with other apps. Your data might be used for personalization or shared with vendors for training purposes.
• Google Gemini: Logs your conversations to improve Google’s products and services, with human reviews of chats for user experience improvement. Data can be retained for up to three years, even if deleted. Privacy policies may change, and they might use this data to target ads in the future.
• DeepSeek: This chatbot takes a more invasive approach, collecting prompts, chat history, location data, device information, and even typing patterns. It stores everything on servers in China, which can be a concern for businesses requiring IT support to manage secure data storage.

The Risks of Chatbot Data Collection

For Gulf Coast businesses, especially those handling sensitive data or needing IT support to maintain compliance, these chatbots pose several risks:

• Privacy Concerns: The sensitive data you share with chatbots could end up accessible to third parties or developers. Microsoft Copilot, for example, has been criticized for over-permissioning, meaning your business information may be exposed.
• Security Vulnerabilities: Chatbots integrated into larger platforms can open the door to cyber threats. Research shows that Microsoft’s Copilot could be manipulated for malicious activities like spear-phishing and data theft. For businesses with tight cybersecurity needs, these vulnerabilities can be a serious concern.
• Compliance Issues: If your Gulf Coast business is in a regulated industry (like healthcare or finance), you need to be aware of data storage and processing practices. Chatbot tools that don’t comply with regulations like GDPR could lead to legal issues down the line. Some businesses have even restricted ChatGPT’s use for this reason.

Mitigating the Risks

If you’re a Gulf Coast business looking to use AI chatbots while protecting your data, here’s how you can minimize the risks:

• Be Cautious with Sensitive Information: Avoid sharing personally identifiable information or business-sensitive data unless you're sure how it will be stored and used.
• Review Privacy Policies: Familiarize yourself with the privacy policies of each chatbot you use. Some platforms, like ChatGPT, offer settings to opt out of data retention or sharing. Always be proactive with your cybersecurity by reviewing these settings regularly.
• Use Privacy Controls: Tools like Microsoft Purview allow businesses to implement governance and protection controls. Using these features can help mitigate risks associated with chatbot use and ensure your IT support is aligned with best practices.
• Stay Informed: Privacy policies are frequently updated. Make sure your business stays informed about the changes to how chatbots handle data so you can adjust your cybersecurity strategy accordingly.

The Bottom Line

AI chatbots offer valuable benefits, especially for Gulf Coast businesses looking for time-saving computer help. But with these benefits come potential risks, including data privacy issues and cybersecurity vulnerabilities. By taking proactive steps—such as being cautious about the data you share, using privacy controls, and staying informed about platform updates—you can safeguard your business while still enjoying the productivity boost these tools provide.

Want to ensure your Gulf Coast business stays secure in today’s digital world? Start with a network assessment to identify vulnerabilities and protect your data from cyber threats. Our IT support team is ready to help you secure your business and keep your information safe from evolving threats.

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