Personal Cybersecurity (Part 47): Why Your AI Tools May Be Putting Your Family at Risk?

As technology grows more sophisticated, so do the risks tied to our daily digital lives. While artificial intelligence (AI) revolutionises convenience, it also opens new doors for cyber threats. How do families, especially those with kids or seniors, stay safe online? Let’s break it down into manageable, jargon-free advice.

So, what is it all about?

What is AI?

Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the capability of a machine or computer system to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as learning, reasoning, problem-solving, and understanding natural language. It encompasses various technologies and methodologies, including machine learning and natural language processing, enabling systems to analyse data, recognise patterns, and make decisions autonomously or assistively based on that information.

What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT is an advanced conversational AI model developed by OpenAI that utilizes natural language processing to generate human-like responses to user inputs. Launched in November 2022, it is based on the Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT) architecture and is designed to assist with a wide range of tasks, including answering questions, creating content, and engaging in dialogue.

So, What is it?

So as not to appear like an episode of Red Dwarf (S05E06 – White Hole – for the nerds), what is it? Well, you don’t need to understand it, I mean do you understand the inner workings of a 1980’s calculator, probably not, but you know how to use it. It’s the same with AI, most of us don’t need to understand how it works, just how to use it safely. There are a lot of tools that use AI, a lot you already use daily that you probably don’t even know were using AI functionality, such as Apple’s Siri, Apple Photos, Face-ID on your phone, predictive text etc.

But most people think of AI as the tools such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Dall-E 2, Microsoft Copilot, Google’s Bard/Gemini, Perplexity, etc., but it is so much more than that.

I personally use a mix of ChatGPT (paid), CoPilot, GPT4All, Perplexity and Midjourney (paid), to write content for these articles, but it still takes a lot of time to craft them into something. AI can’t read my mind and add my personal experiences and thoughts. So, as I said in the intro, AI is a tool, and the user needs to be the expert and tweak/approve any content it generates.

To use the core AI tools requires mastering the question, but I’ll discuss that in a future article.

The Rise of AI in Our Lives

Did you know that personal use of AI has skyrocketed over the past year? AI tools are now being used for everything from homework help to crafting professional resumes. A recent study revealed a 35% increase in AI use for education alone in the past 12 months, with family members of all ages embracing its capabilities.

But here’s the catch: AI tools are only as secure as the data you feed them. Sharing sensitive details—like uploading documents for “analysis”—could expose your family to data breaches.

The Risks Lurking in Plain Sight

Not all AI tools are created equal. Some apps marketed as “free” are merely fronts for scams or hidden tracking software. Worse still, they often mimic legitimate services. How can you tell the difference?

• Do your research: Before using any app, check its reviews and origin.
• Stick to trusted sources: Use well-known platforms like Microsoft or Google’s AI offerings rather than third-party imitations.
• Avoid oversharing: Think twice before uploading sensitive family documents or personal information.

Protecting the Vulnerable—Kids and Seniors

Kids love the internet, but they don’t always grasp its dangers. Tools for image editing and manipulation have become worryingly easy to access, raising the stakes for digital safety.

Here’s how you can stay ahead:

• Enable Parental Controls: Most devices and apps, including YouTube, have settings to filter inappropriate content.
• Monitor Usage: Regularly review the apps your children download or use.
• Educate Together: Talk to your kids about online privacy, explaining why some “cool” apps may be risky.

For seniors, the challenge is often recognising phishing attempts or overly-complicated security settings. A quick tip? Teach them to pause before clicking on unfamiliar links and to contact you if something feels off.

Best Tools for Safer Internet Use

It’s easier than ever to safeguard your family’s digital footprint:

• Password Managers: Tools like LastPass or Dashlane make creating strong, unique passwords a breeze.
• Antivirus Software: A reliable antivirus can detect threats early. Norton and McAfee are family-friendly favourites.
• VPNs (Virtual Private Networks): These add a layer of encryption to keep your browsing private.
• AI Usage Safeguards: Platforms like OpenAI have built-in security measures, but always double-check what you share.

Are You Doing Enough?

At the end of the day, cybersecurity isn’t a one-and-done deal—it’s an ongoing process. Have you done a security check on your household’s devices lately? Are you teaching kids and seniors to spot scams?

Keeping your family safe online is simpler when you’re proactive. What will your next digital safety step be?