We live in a world that is captivated by AI, or Artificial Intelligence. If you haven’t used it yet, someone you know has. Programs like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot are being pushed into the spotlight. While AI can be a resourceful tool, some people have started using it as a replacement for social interaction and even therapy. It’s important to be mindful when using AI chatbot services in particular. Some people find that conversations with AI feel very real and personable, but you have to remember that they are programmed that way. AI systems learn from your inputs, so avoid sharing anything personal. If you wouldn’t post it on social media, don’t share it with AI.
What you post online can be shared with AI, too. Since AI models often absorb data from the web, what you share publicly online may be copied in some capacity by AI systems. Because of this, you should alwasy fact check any information gathered from AI as it cannot determine fact from fiction the same way you can. It does not understand context or sarcasm.
On top of everything else, AI is bad for the environment. AI Data centers use up an incredible amount of natural resources, such as water. These data centers are polluting the environment because they require so much energy to work. One quick AI search alone is estimated to use 4-5x more energy than a normal search engine.
As with most things online, we urge you not to share any private information with AI. Hackers can use AI against you. Common AI tools can be used to make a voice call, which mimics a trusted person’s voice. This method has been used to steal money or to harass people. Another common AI-driven method is posting fake or modified images and videos of someone to harass or threaten them. This means that it is more important than ever that everyone protects themselves by using strong passwords, keeping software updated, and reporting phishing. Always think twice if something seems suspicious.
To learn more about AI privacy and safety, click here
To learn more about AI’s effect on the planet, click here