Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are becoming increasingly common in our daily lives—from virtual assistants to generative models that write code, summarize documents, or help brainstorm ideas. However, while these tools are powerful and often incredibly helpful, it’s essential to understand that they aren’t private diaries. Users should be mindful of what kind of information they share when interacting with AI systems, especially those connected to the internet or operated by third parties.
In this article, we’ll explore the types of information you should never share with AI models to protect your privacy, security, and data integrity.
1. Personally Identifiable Information (PII)
PII refers to any data that can identify an individual, such as:
Full name
Email address
Phone number
Physical address
National ID numbers (like Social Security numbers, passport numbers, etc.)
Birthdate or place of birth
Even if the AI system doesn’t store data permanently, sharing PII increases your risk of identity theft or unwanted data exposure—especially if the tool is integrated into third-party apps or services.
2. Financial Information
Never input sensitive financial details such as:
Credit card or debit card numbers
Bank account information
Tax ID numbers
Online banking credentials
Cryptocurrency wallet keys
Sharing this kind of information is not just risky—it can directly lead to fraud or financial loss.
3. Login Credentials and Passwords
It may be tempting to ask an AI to “remember” your login details or help debug a script that includes credentials. Don’t do it. Always keep:
Passwords
Two-factor authentication codes
Private API keys
Access tokens
strictly confidential. Use a secure password manager instead.
4. Confidential Business Data
AI tools are great for productivity, but you should avoid sharing:
Internal company documents
Proprietary code
Trade secrets
Client data
Non-public financial information
Unless you are using a specifically authorized and secure enterprise-level AI system, treat all business data as off-limits in public or general-use AI platforms.
5. Sensitive Personal Topics
Be cautious when discussing deeply personal topics such as:
Medical or psychological conditions
Legal issues
Family problems or abuse
Personal relationships
While AI can offer general advice, it’s not a substitute for professional support. Additionally, sharing this kind of information can feel intrusive or even be used unethically if mishandled.
6. Anything You Wouldn’t Want Made Public
As a rule of thumb: if you wouldn’t want it posted on the front page of the internet, don’t share it with an AI. While many platforms have strong privacy policies, no system is completely immune to breaches or mismanagement.
Conclusion
AI tools are incredible, but they’re not human and they don’t offer true confidentiality unless explicitly designed to do so. Always think twice before hitting “Enter.” Be mindful of what you share, stay informed about platform policies, and use AI responsibly.
By practicing digital hygiene and safeguarding your data, you can enjoy the benefits of AI without compromising your security.
Did you know that you can now have your own private AI—one that runs locally and doesn’t even require an internet connection? It’s easier and more accessible than ever. If you’re curious about how a secure, offline AI solution could work for you or your business, contact us today for a free consultation. We’d love to help you explore the possibilities.