How to prevent generative AI from causing data leaks
Written by Barry Eichhorn
Owner & AI Advisor
Generative AI makes it easier than ever to work faster, be more creative and automate processes. But that convenience has a downside too. Many companies use tools such as ChatGPT without giving enough thought to their safety. The risk? Data leaks, accidental disclosure of customer information or even reputational damage. We are happy to walk you through how your company can use generative AI safely.
How generative AI puts cybersecurity in the spotlight
Most AI tools are cloud-based. Everything you enter is processed externally. That means sensitive information, such as customer data, contract texts or internal figures, can easily end up in the wrong hands. These are the biggest risks:
- Shadow AI: employees use AI tools without the knowledge of IT or management.
- Entering sensitive data: without realising it, users enter privacy-sensitive or business-confidential information.
- Accidental data leaks: some tools store user input or even use it for training purposes.
- Wrong assumptions: AI tools can generate incorrect or outdated information that is then adopted without question.
For companies without a dedicated IT department, this can have major consequences, from fines to reputational damage.
Generative AI refers to systems that can create content themselves based on input, such as text, images or code. Well-known examples are ChatGPT (for text), Midjourney (for images) and GitHub Copilot (for programming code).
These tools are often free or easy to access. That makes them popular in the workplace, including outside the IT department. Employees use them to write emails, create designs or even analyse customer information. But that is exactly where the risk lies. Generative AI tools are often used without you knowing what happens to the data that is entered.
What is generative AI? And why is everyone suddenly using it?
Using generative AI wisely
The good news: you don't have to ban generative AI. With smart policies and awareness, you can reap the benefits without taking unnecessary risks. A few practical tips:
- Set clear AI guidelines
Make sure employees know which tools they may use and what they may or may not enter. For example: no personal data in external AI tools. - Choose safe alternatives or settings
Do you use a paid version of ChatGPT or another LLM platform? You can often specify that your data is not used to train the model further. That significantly reduces the risk of data leaks. Do bear in mind that the data is still processed externally, so you should still avoid sensitive or confidential information. - Train your team
Organise short sessions or internal knowledge training. Explain what generative AI is, what the risks are, and how to deal with it. - Add AI to your existing security policy
Make AI use part of your existing IT security measures. Think of logging, access control and regular audits.
Generative AI is here to stay
Generative AI has become part of everyday work in many organisations. But without clear agreements or secure tools, it can quickly become a risk. By opting for controlled use, you not only reduce the chance of data leaks, but you also get real value out of AI.
At BE Digital, we offer a secure AI assistant that is specially trained on your organisation. It allows employees to use AI centrally and in a controlled way, without the need for complicated implementations.
View our AI assistant or request a free BE Digital Scan and discover how to use generative AI wisely within your company.