AI Data Privacy Concerns - 7 Tips to Safeguard Your Data

As AI has become an increasingly important part of our lives, it's easy to wonder how much personal information these systems gather. From virtual assistants to AI-powered recommendations on shopping platforms and social media, AI systems often require access to vast amounts of user data. 

While AI can improve our everyday experiences, it raises significant questions about privacy. Have you ever asked yourself, "Is AI tracking my data?” Here, we will explain how it happens and offer practical ways to protect your privacy.

What Data Is Collected by AI Systems?

AI systems collect a wide range of data to function properly and enhance user experiences. Let’s break down the types of data commonly gathered.

1. Personal Identifiable Information (PII)

This includes details like your name, email address, phone number, and home address. Platforms like Google and Facebook typically collect this data when you create an account.

2. Behavioral Data

AI systems often track how you use services, such as your search history, the websites you visit, how long you spend on a particular page, or the products you purchase. For example, when you shop online, AI analyzes your shopping habits to recommend similar products.

3. Location Data

Many AI-powered apps, such as navigation tools or social media platforms, gather location data through your GPS to offer services based on your whereabouts.

4. Voice and Audio Data

Smart speakers like Amazon Echo or Google Home listen to voice commands and may store audio files to improve performance.

5. Facial Recognition Data

AI systems can also collect facial data, especially on facial recognition platforms like security apps or social media photo tagging features.

6. Social Interaction Data

Social media platforms that use AI collect data about your connections, posts you like, share, or comment on, and the ads you click.

7. Device Information

AI systems often track what kind of device you use (phone, tablet, or computer), the model, and even the operating system.

What Happens to Your Data When You Interact With AI-Powered Platforms?

When you engage with AI-powered services, your data typically doesn’t just stay on your device. Instead, it is often uploaded to cloud servers, which can be stored, analyzed, and sometimes even shared with third parties. Here’s what typically happens:

1. Data Storage

Your data is often stored in large data centers, commonly called "the cloud." This allows companies to keep track of your preferences, even when you switch devices.

2. Data Processing

Once collected, AI systems use algorithms to analyze your data. For instance, if you’ve been watching many sci-fi movies, AI will process this information and suggest similar films in the future.

3. Personalization

AI uses your data to offer personalized recommendations or ads. This could mean showing you news articles you’re likely to read or targeted advertisements based on your browsing history.

4. Data Sharing

Many companies share your data with third parties, such as advertisers or analytics firms. This means another company could use your data for one service without your direct knowledge.

5. Data Retention

Some companies store your data indefinitely, even after you stop using their services. According to a study, 81% of users believe the risks associated with companies collecting their data outweigh the potential benefits.

The Risks of Data Misuse

The sheer amount of data AI systems collect poses serious risks if it falls into the wrong hands or is misused. Below are some of the potential dangers:

1. Identity Theft

The more personal data you share, the more vulnerable you are to identity theft. Hackers could access your Social Security number, credit card information, or other sensitive details stored by AI systems.

2. Data Breaches

Even large corporations with strong security measures can suffer data breaches. For instance, the 2019 Capital One breach exposed over 100 million customer records. Violations like these can result in your personal information being sold on the dark web.

3. Surveillance

AI systems with access to cameras or microphones could be misused to monitor your activities. Even though most companies have policies against this, there’s always a risk that a flaw or lousy actor could bypass security measures.

4. Discrimination

AI systems can sometimes use data in ways that discriminate against certain groups. For example, facial recognition technology has been shown to misidentify people of color at higher rates than white individuals, raising concerns about racial bias.

5. Manipulation

Companies may use the data AI collects to influence their behavior. For example, social media platforms can show you content designed to keep you engaged for longer, often leading to addictive behaviors.

6. Loss of AI Data Privacy

The more data AI collects, the less privacy you have. Over time, your life can become an open book, with companies knowing everything from your shopping habits to your political views.

7 Practical Tips to Protect Your Privacy

Given the potential risks, it’s crucial to safeguard your privacy when using AI-powered services. Here are seven practical tips to help you stay in control of your data.

1. Limit Your Data Sharing in Settings

AI-driven platforms often provide you with control over what data you share. They have AI data privacy settings that allow you to control who sees your posts, who can tag you in photos, and whether your profile is searchable. Regularly review and adjust your privacy settings on social media and other online accounts to limit what data you share. 

In 2018, Facebook faced heavy criticism for the Cambridge Analytica scandal, where the personal data of 87 million users was harvested without their consent to influence the U.S. elections. Many users were unaware that their AI data privacy settings allowed third-party apps access to their data, leading to a broader conversation about data sharing on social media platforms.

2. Turn Off Your Location Tracking

Many apps ask for location access even when they don’t need it to function. By turning off location tracking, you can reduce the amount of personal information shared with companies that might use it for targeted advertising or data analytics. Go into your device’s settings and disable location permissions for apps that don’t need them.

In 2019, The New York Times published an investigation into mobile phone location tracking data. The report highlighted how mobile apps collected precise location data from millions of users without clear consent. The data, often updated thousands of times daily, was sold to third-party companies, enabling them to track individuals’ movements in real time. It exposed how easily personal location data could be exploited for profit.

3. Use Strong and Unique Passwords

Hackers commonly use weak or reused passwords to access multiple accounts. Strong, unique passwords can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your accounts. Use a password manager to create and store strong, unique passwords for each account.

LinkedIn suffered a breach in 2012, where 6.5 million hashed passwords were stolen. Later, it was revealed that 167 million accounts were compromised, with 117 million passwords cracked and sold on the dark web for 5 Bitcoin. Many of these accounts were hacked because users reused the same password across multiple platforms, allowing hackers to access other personal accounts.

4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds a second layer of security by requiring you to provide an additional code sent to your phone or email, even if someone has your password. This makes it much harder for hackers to access your account. Always enable 2FA, especially for important accounts like banking, email, and social media.

In 2020, Twitter accounts of high-profile individuals, including Barack Obama, Elon Musk, and Bill Gates, were hacked in a massive Bitcoin scam. The attackers accessed the accounts by exploiting weaknesses in Twitter’s security protocols. However, individuals with 2FA enabled were better protected and less likely to have their accounts compromised.

5. Be Mindful of Smart Devices

Smart devices, such as smart speakers (like Amazon Echo and Google Home), security cameras, and even smart thermostats, can collect a wealth of data about your daily activities. While convenient, they can also be hacked if not properly secured. Change the default passwords on smart devices, and regularly check for software updates that include security patches.

Back in 2019, a smart home security system named Ring cameras was hacked. Hackers gained access to live camera feeds, enabling them to watch and even communicate with the residents. In one case, a hacker harassed an 8-year-old girl through the camera. The vulnerability came from weak default passwords that many users had yet to change.

6. Use Privacy-Focused Tools

Various tools are designed to enhance your online AI data privacy. For example, browsers like Firefox and Brave block trackers and ads that collect data about your browsing habits. Consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection and keep your browsing data private. 

Mozilla introduced Enhanced Tracking Protection (ETP) by default in Firefox, blocking thousands of third-party trackers to enhance user privacy. This helped reduce the amount of data advertisers could collect without users’ knowledge.

7. Be Wary of Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured, making them a prime target for hackers looking to steal personal data like passwords and credit card numbers. Avoid entering sensitive information when connected to public networks. If you need public Wi-Fi, always connect via a VPN to encrypt your connection and protect your data from potential hackers.

Floyd’s Coffee Shop in Portland's Old Town Chinatown experienced a Wi-Fi hack that compromised customer privacy and security. The hacker changed passwords, including for surveillance cameras, and accessed connected users. Cybersecurity expert Mark Cooper from PKI Solutions highlighted the need for better security practices. Floyd’s has implemented additional measures to protect the business and its customers.

Final Word

With AI-driven platforms collecting increasing amounts of personal data, protecting your privacy has never been more important. By following these practical tips, you can safeguard your personal information, minimize the risks of data misuse, and stay in control of your digital life.

Remember, being proactive about your privacy doesn’t require drastic changes. Small steps like using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and being mindful of what data you share can make a big difference in keeping your information safe.