Generative AI: Safeguarding Your Information

Generative AI, a powerful tool capable of creating realistic text, images, code, and more, is rapidly transforming the digital landscape. While it offers numerous benefits, it's essential to approach this technology with caution, especially when sharing personal information.

Why is it important to be careful?

1. Data Privacy Concerns:

   • Data Collection: Generative AI models are trained on vast amounts of data, including personal information. This data, such as financial details, health records, or private conversations, can be sensitive.
   • Potential Misuse: If this data is not handled securely, it could be accessed by malicious actors, leading to identity theft, fraud, or other cybercrimes.

2. AI Bias and Discrimination:

   • Biased Data: AI models learn from the data on which they are trained. The AI may generate biased or discriminatory outputs, if this data is biased.
   • Unfair Treatment: This can lead to unfair treatment of certain groups of people, such as those based on race, gender, or ethnicity.

3. Misinformation and Disinformation:

   • Deepfakes: AI can be used to create highly realistic deepfakes, which can be used to spread misinformation or deceive people.
   • False Information: AI-generated content can be used to spread false information, leading to confusion and distrust.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Be Mindful of the Information You Share:

  • Limit Personal Data: Avoid sharing sensitive personal information, such as your Social Insurance Number, address, or financial details.
  • Use Strong Passwords: Protect your accounts with strong, unique passwords or passphrases.
  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your accounts.

• Be Critical of AI-Generated Content:

  • Verify Information: Cross-reference information from multiple sources.
  • Be Skeptical of Outlandish Claims: Be wary of claims that seem too good to be true.
  • Use Fact-Checking Tools: Utilize online tools to verify the accuracy of information.

• Stay Informed:

  • Follow AI News: Keep up-to-date on the latest developments in AI and its potential risks.
  • Learn About AI Ethics: Understand the ethical implications of AI and how it can be used responsibly.

By being aware of these risks and taking proactive steps to protect yourself, you can harness the power of generative AI while minimizing its potential negative impacts.

Go Further… 

• Interim PIA Guidelines: Generative AI Tools
• UBC's approach to GenAI in teaching and learning
• Resources and support for faculty interested in integrating AI tools like GenAI into their teaching practices