Beginner level · Module 5: Responsible AI at Work · Lesson 1 of 3
Protecting Data When Using AI
Keep customer, staff and business information safe when using AI tools.
In this lesson you will
- Identify information that must not be shared with AI tools
- Use privacy settings and safer alternatives
Key concepts
personal dataconfidential business informationprivacy settingsanonymising
The lesson
Customer names, phone numbers, account details, staff records, contracts and passwords must not be typed into AI tools unless the tool is approved for such data and its settings are checked.
Many tools have settings that stop conversations being used for training. Use them, and prefer business plans where data handling is clearly agreed.
When you need help with a document containing personal data, remove or replace the names and details first.
Step by step
- List information types your business must protect.
- Check the privacy settings of your AI tool.
- Anonymise a sample customer message.
- Write the data rules for the staff guide.
Practice activity
Write the data protection section of the staff AI guide.
Expected result: Clear rules with examples of what never to share.
Check your understanding
-
Give two examples of data that must not be pasted into unapproved AI tools.
Show answer
For example customer phone numbers and staff records.
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What can you do before asking AI for help with a document containing names?
Show answer
Replace or remove the names and identifying details.
Taught live by an instructor — online or in person. Free course lessons are for self-study and do not lead to a certificate — see registration options.