Chatbots like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini, and DeepSeek are revolutionizing how we get things done—from drafting emails and creating marketing content to organizing grocery lists.

But as these AI tools become more integrated into your business and daily routines, one question looms larger every day:

Who’s really listening—and what are they doing with your data?

The truth? These bots are always on, always collecting, and in many cases, quietly logging and storing information you may assume is private.

So let’s break down what these tools are actually doing, and how you can protect your business before your data ends up in the wrong hands.

🔍 How Chatbots Collect and Use Your Data

When you use a chatbot, your inputs—everything you type—don’t just disappear. They’re collected, stored, and sometimes reviewed. Here’s how the major platforms handle your data:

💬 ChatGPT (OpenAI)

• Collects: Your prompts, location, device data, and usage patterns.

• Shares with: Vendors and service providers.

• Purpose: To improve performance and train models.

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💻 Microsoft Copilot

• Collects: Chat data, app interactions, browsing history.

• Uses for: AI model training, product development, personalized ads.

• Red flag: Potential over-permissioning has led to data exposure concerns.

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🌐 Google Gemini

• Collects: Chat history, user inputs.

• Retains: Data for up to three years, even after deletion.

• Claim: Not used for ads—for now.

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🇨🇳 DeepSeek

• Collects: Chat history, device data, location, typing patterns.

• Uses for: Targeted advertising and AI training.

• Stored in: The People’s Republic of China—raising major data sovereignty concerns.

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🚨 What Are the Real Risks?

1. 🔓 Privacy Breaches

Sensitive business or personal data you input may be visible to platform developers or third parties.

Example: Microsoft Copilot has faced criticism for exposing confidential enterprise data due to lax controls. (Concentric)

 

2. 🧨 Security Vulnerabilities

AI tools can be exploited to launch spear-phishing attacks or extract data. One report revealed that Copilot could be manipulated to assist hackers in crafting malicious emails. (Wired)

3. ⚖️ Regulatory & Compliance Threats

Failing to comply with laws like GDPR or HIPAA by using chatbots that store data improperly could land your business in legal hot water.

Several organizations have already restricted or banned the use of ChatGPT over compliance concerns. (The Times)

 

✅ How to Stay Safe While Using Chatbots

Here are smart, practical steps you can take:

1. Be Cautious With What You Share

Never input sensitive client information, financial data, or login credentials into a chatbot unless you fully understand how that data is stored and processed.

2. Review Privacy Settings

Most platforms offer some form of opt-out or privacy controls. Use them.

• Example: ChatGPT allows you to disable chat history to reduce data retention.

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3. Use Enterprise-Level Controls

If your business relies on AI tools, implement governance platforms like Microsoft Purview to control access, audit usage, and manage data security across platforms.

4. Stay Informed

Keep track of policy updates. Privacy policies are notorious for changing quietly—and not always in your favor.

🧠 Bottom Line: Be Smart, Not Sorry

Chatbots are powerful productivity tools, but they’re not privacy-friendly by default. If you’re using AI in your business, you need a cybersecurity strategy that protects your data from misuse, exposure, and external threats.

That starts with awareness—and action.

📢 Want to know where your vulnerabilities are hiding?

🛡️ Schedule your FREE Network Assessment today. We’ll evaluate your tech stack, uncover gaps, and help you stay secure in an AI-powered world.

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