AI chatbots like ChatGPT, Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, and the newly launched DeepSeek are quickly becoming everyday tools—at work, at home, and everywhere in between. Whether it’s drafting emails, generating content, or managing your grocery list, these platforms make tasks easier in ways that felt futuristic just a few years ago.
But behind all that convenience is a growing concern—one that’s easy to overlook: Where is your data going, and who has access to it?
These tools aren’t just helpful assistants. They’re always on, often collecting, and in many cases, continuously learning from what you share. And while some platforms are more transparent than others, one thing is clear: data collection is part of the deal.
So the real question becomes: How much of your data are these tools gathering, and what happens to it once it leaves your hands?
How AI Chatbots Collect and Use Your Data
When you engage with AI tools, your inputs don’t just stay between you and the bot. Here's what typically happens behind the scenes:
1. Data Collection
AI platforms process your inputs to generate responses. That could include personal details, internal business data, or proprietary information—often without clear limits on how that data is used or stored.
2. Data Storage
Each platform handles your data a bit differently:
- ChatGPT (OpenAI): Collects prompts, device info, location, and usage data. Information may be shared with vendors to “improve services.”
- Microsoft Copilot: Gathers similar data, plus browsing history and app usage. Data may be used for ad targeting or training AI models.
- Google Gemini: Logs interactions to enhance its products and machine learning. Human review is possible. Data may be retained for up to three years—even after deletion.
- DeepSeek: Captures prompts, location, device info, and even typing behavior. Data is used for training and advertising—and stored on servers in the People’s Republic of China.
3. Data Usage
This data is used to refine the chatbot’s performance—but how it’s handled beyond that is often vague. This raises valid concerns around consent, ownership, and security.
The Risks You Need to Know
While these tools may feel harmless, they can present real risks—especially for businesses handling sensitive or regulated data.
🔍 Privacy Gaps
Data shared with a chatbot may be accessible to developers, vendors, or internal reviewers. For example, Microsoft Copilot has faced scrutiny for exposing confidential files due to overly broad permissions.
(Source: Concentric)
🔓 Security Vulnerabilities
AI tools integrated into business systems expand the attack surface. Recent reports revealed Copilot could be manipulated to perform spear-phishing attacks and other malicious activities.
(Source: Wired)
⚖️ Compliance Challenges
Organizations bound by regulations like GDPR or HIPAA face serious risks using AI tools that store or transmit data across borders—or lack clear data handling practices. Some companies have already banned tools like ChatGPT altogether.
(Source: The Times)
What You Can Do About It
You don’t need to ditch AI entirely—but you do need to use it with intention. Here’s how:
✅ Be Mindful of What You Share: Never input sensitive or personally identifiable information unless you're confident in how it’s handled.
✅ Read the Fine Print: Review privacy policies and data usage terms. Some platforms (like ChatGPT) allow you to opt out of data retention.
✅ Use Enterprise Tools: Platforms like Microsoft Purview offer robust data governance and compliance tools for business use.
✅ Stay Informed: AI evolves quickly. Stay updated on privacy settings, policy changes, and security enhancements.
Bottom Line
AI chatbots offer incredible efficiency—but they also introduce new risks. As these tools become embedded in your day-to-day operations, data governance and cybersecurity must be part of the conversation.
Want to know how your business stacks up when it comes to AI readiness and data protection?
👉 Start with a FREE Network Assessment
We’ll help you identify hidden vulnerabilities, evaluate your current controls, and develop a strategy to keep your systems secure—no matter what tech comes next.
