Recently, I was helping a colleague draft an email using one of those advanced AI tools. We were impressed by how well it captured their voice—right down to their signature greeting. But then they paused and asked, “Wait… who actually sees this after I type it in?”
That question stuck with me. Because the truth is, many people don’t really know what happens after we hit "Enter" in a chatbot.
I’m not here to alarm you—but I am here to be honest.
These Bots Aren’t Just Helping… They’re Listening
Chatbots like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Microsoft Copilot—even newer ones like DeepSeek—have made life a whole lot easier. They help us write, plan, and get stuff done faster.
But here’s the kicker: they’re not just working for you. They’re also watching you. Listening. Storing. Learning.
Some are more upfront about it than others, but make no mistake—your chats aren’t just between you and the bot.
So let’s break it down. Who’s collecting what… and what does it mean for you?
What These Chatbots Are Really Doing With Your Data
When you type something into a chatbot, that info doesn’t just disappear. It’s usually saved, reviewed, and sometimes even shared. Here's what you should know about a few of the big ones:
- ChatGPT (OpenAI): They save what you type, your device info, and where you are. Some of that gets shared with their vendors to “improve the product.”
- Microsoft Copilot: Same as above, plus your browsing history and app usage. That data might help them show you ads or train their AI.
- Google Gemini: They might keep your conversations up to three years—even if you delete them. And yes, a human might read your chats.
- DeepSeek: This one’s a bit much. They track what you type, where you are, your device details, and even how fast you type. And all that data? Stored on servers in China.
In plain English: every time you use one of these tools, you’re handing over pieces of your life—sometimes without even realizing it.
What’s At Risk?
Using AI tools is becoming standard practice. But if you’re running a business—especially one that handles client info—you’ve got to be smart.
Here’s what can go sideways:
- Privacy Problems: That private note you typed? It might not stay private. Some platforms let developers or third parties peek under the hood.
- Security Holes: Hackers are clever. Tools like Microsoft Copilot have been shown to be vulnerable to bad actors trying to steal data or trick your team.
- Compliance Issues: If your business has to follow rules like HIPAA or GDPR, using the wrong AI tool could land you in hot water.
So, What Can You Do About It?
Here’s how to use AI wisely:
- Don’t overshare. Avoid putting sensitive stuff into chatbots unless you know exactly how they handle your info.
- Read the fine print. Yeah, it’s boring—but those privacy policies matter. Some tools let you opt out of data collection.
- Use security tools. Platforms like Microsoft Purview can help you manage the risks and stay compliant.
- Stay in the know. These policies change often. What’s “private” today might be public next week.
Bottom Line
AI chatbots are powerful tools—but just like any power tool, they can do more harm than good if you don’t know how to handle them safely.
If you’re feeling unsure about where your business might be exposed, don’t go it alone. As a trusted local provider of IT services in Milwaukee, we offer a FREE Network Assessment to help you find and fix vulnerabilities before they become big problems.
👉 Click here to schedule your FREE Network Assessment with a Milwaukee IT expert. Let’s lock things down and protect what you’ve worked so hard to build.
