The rise of GenAI and the impact on your data privacy
Data privacy is increasingly at risk with the growing use of generative AI (GenAI). Over 77 percent of companies are either using or exploring AI, with more than three-quarters experiencing AI-related security breaches. Nearly one-third of employees have admitted to placing sensitive data into GenAI tools, with 39 percent of respondents citing data leaks as a top risk.
To address these issues, Kiteworks offers several recommendations:
Avoid Using Personal or Proprietary Information in GenAI
Data security should be a priority when using large language models (LLMs) and generative AI tools. Employees should avoid inputting personal or proprietary data, including customer information, financial data, and confidential documents, to mitigate the risk of unauthorized access.
Create a Company Policy on AI and Privacy
LLMs and generative AI tools have significant privacy and security challenges. Implementing company policies that specify what can be shared with AI tools is crucial. Regular employee training and the use of data loss prevention (DLP) technologies are recommended to safeguard sensitive information.
Manage Data Privacy Settings
To prevent company data from being used for AI model training, it’s essential to manage data privacy settings. Disable features that store uploaded information and regularly review permissions to prevent unnecessary access. Regularly delete chat histories to minimize the risk of sensitive information being stored.
Regularly Change Passwords and Use Data Access Controls
Strong passwords and data access controls are vital for protecting accounts linked to AI systems. Use long, complex passwords and unique ones for each AI-related account. Employing multifactor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security.
Audit AI Interactions and Monitor Data Breaches
Employees should avoid sharing private work-related content in public LLMs. Regular audits and monitoring for suspicious activities can help mitigate risks. Conduct security assessments and establish breach response protocols to maintain data integrity.
Source: The rise of GenAI and the impact on your data privacy
