This article explores why these issues are critical when using generative AI, highlights cybersecurity concerns, outlines do's and don’ts of cyber hygiene, and underscores the importance of understanding privacy policies in educational settings.

Privacy and Information Security Concerns with Generative AI

Privacy and information security are major concerns in the context of generative AI for several reasons:

• Data Privacy: A general rule in safeguarding your information online is to never share your sensitive personal information on the internet, especially public sites and apps. Similarly, the generative AI tools we have access to are public tools, so users remember never to include personally identifiable information in prompts and chats. 

• Potential Misuse: There's a risk that the AI could generate outputs that compromise personal or institutional data.

• Vulnerability to Breaches: As with any technology, AI systems can be vulnerable to cyberattacks, leading to data breaches.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cyber Hygiene Practices When Using AI Tools

When integrating AI tools into the educational process, maintaining cyber hygiene is crucial. Here are some guidelines:

• Do's:

  • Regularly update AI software to ensure security features are current.

  • Use strong, unique passwords for AI applications.

  • Educate students and staff about phishing and other cyber threats.

  • Secure personal and institutional data with robust encryption methods.

• Don'ts:

  • Avoid sharing sensitive personal information unnecessarily with AI systems.

  • Do not bypass security protocols for convenience.

  • Avoid using unverified AI tools or applications.

  • Do not ignore software updates and security alerts.

The Importance of Reading Privacy Policies in Schools

In an educational context, it's vital to thoroughly read and understand the privacy policies of AI tools. These policies detail how the AI will use, store, and protect data, and what data might be collected. Schools need to ensure that the use of these AI tools complies with legal standards and protects the privacy rights of students and staff. 

Additionally, schools must take extra precaution to be familiar with the age restrictions, as many AI tools stipulate that the user must be 13 years old and above. Some tools may also require parental consent for users under 18, such as ChatGPT. 

Understanding these policies helps in making informed decisions about which AI tools are appropriate for school use.

Conclusion

As generative AI becomes more embedded in educational contexts, understanding and navigating the challenges of privacy and information security becomes increasingly important. By adopting rigorous cyber hygiene practices, staying informed about cybersecurity concerns, and thoroughly understanding privacy policies, schools can responsibly harness the benefits of AI while safeguarding their community's data security and privacy.