6 Chapter 6: Safety with AI

How AI Works

AI tools are like helpful assistants that can perform tasks or answer questions based on the information they receive. These tools are programmed to follow specific rules, and they don’t have human-like judgment or emotions.  AI tools are designed to help them with daily tasks, entertainment, and staying connected, rather than to invade privacy.

Data Privacy and Control

Reputable AI tools have built-in privacy protections and that companies providing these tools follow laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).  These laws require companies to protect personal data and allow users to control how their data is used.

Tutorial Guide: Controlling What Information You Share with AI Apps

Below, I’ll walk you through how you can control the information you share with AI apps by adjusting a few key settings like location access, microphone permissions, and account privacy. Most AI apps let you use basic features without needing to share much personal data.

1. Check and Adjust Location Access

Many apps ask for your location, but you can decide whether or not to share it.

• On a Smartphone (Android or iPhone):
  • ○ Go to Settings.
  • ○ Find Apps or App Permissions.
  • ○ Select the app you want to adjust.
• ○ Look for Location and choose from options like:
  • ■ Always: App can access your location anytime.
  • ■ While Using the App: App only knows your location when it’s open.
  • ■ Never: The app doesn’t get access to your location at all

Tip: It’s usually safe to choose While Using the App for most apps.

2. Manage Microphone Permissions

Many AI apps (like voice assistants) need access to your microphone, but you can control when they can listen.

• On a Smartphone (Android or iPhone):
  • ○ Go to Settings.
  • ○ Open Privacy (or Permissions Manager on some devices).
  • ○ Select Microphone.
  • ○ Review which apps have microphone access. Turn off access for apps that don’t need it.
  • ○ Tip: Apps like video calling tools may need the microphone, but some other apps don’t need it unless you’re using a specific feature.

3. Adjust Account Privacy Settings

Most AI apps let you control what personal information is shared, like your profile, email, or usage data.

• In the App:
  • ○ Open the app and go to the Settings menu (often found in the profile or by tapping the three dots).
  • ○ Look for Privacy or Account Settings.
  • ○ Review options to limit sharing of:
    • ■ Personal Information: Only share what’s needed to use the app.
    • ■ Usage Data: Some apps collect data to improve their services—many offer an option to turn this off.
    • ■ Ads and Tracking: You can often turn off personalized ads to limit what the app tracks about you.
  • ○ Tip: Opt for the highest privacy level that still lets you use the app comfortably.

4. Limit AI’s Data Collection

Some AI apps give options to control how much data is used for learning and personalization.

• In App Settings:
  1. Look for an option like Data or Usage Permissions.
  2. Turn off settings like Personalized Learning or Data Collection for Improvement if you want to reduce what the app knows about you.

5. Stay Safe with Basic Features

Many AI apps will still work even if you don’t share much personal information. For example, you can use voice assistants for reminders and weather updates without enabling location services or allowing microphone access when you’re not using the app.

Tip: Regularly check your settings to ensure apps are only accessing the information you’re comfortable sharing.

Transparency and Consent

Before using any app, you’ll likely be asked to agree to a privacy policy. Look for key points, such as whether their data is shared with third parties and how it’s stored.  You are in control of whether you want to share their data, and many apps will let you opt out of data collection for marketing or analytics.

Tips for Staying Safe Online

• Password Security: Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication (if available) for added security.
• Beware of Scams: While AI tools are generally safe,still be cautious of phishing attempts, suspicious links, or emails asking for personal information. Always check if the source is trusted.

Scams Seniors Should be Aware Of

Phishing Attempt:  Phishing is when scammers try to trick you into sharing personal information, like passwords or credit card details, by pretending to be from a legitimate company.

What to Watch For:

• Emails or messages that seem to be from a trusted company (like an AI tool provider) but ask you to click suspicious links or enter personal information.
• Misspelled website addresses or slight variations of trusted sites.

Tip: Never click on links from unknown senders. Always go to the official website of the AI tool directly by typing the address in your browser.

Fake AI Tools or Apps:  Some scammers create fake AI apps or tools that look real but are designed to steal your information or charge hidden fees.

What to Watch For:

• Apps with very few or bad reviews.
• Websites asking for unnecessary personal information upfront, like Social Security numbers.

Tip: Only download apps from official app stores like the Apple App Store or Google Play. Look for reviews and check the developer’s reputation before downloading any tool.

Suspicious Links:  Sometimes scammers will send links claiming to offer AI tools, but clicking on them can download malware or viruses onto your computer or phone.

What to Watch For:

• Unexpected emails or messages containing links that seem too good to be true, such as “Get this AI tool for free now!”

Tip: If you receive a suspicious link, don’t click it. Instead, verify the source by going directly to the company’s website or contacting them through official channels.

Offers for Paid AI Services You Didn’t Request:  Some scammers target seniors by offering expensive AI services or subscriptions, making them seem necessary when they’re not.

What to Watch For:

• Unsolicited offers for “premium AI services” or tools that claim to perform tasks like protecting your identity, often at high prices.

Tip: Don’t provide payment information unless you’re sure it’s a legitimate service you want. Most free AI tools work well for everyday tasks, so paid services may not be necessary.

Fake Tech Support:  Scammers may pretend to be tech support for AI tools, asking for remote access to your computer to “fix” an issue but really stealing your data.

What to Watch For:

• Unsolicited phone calls or pop-up messages offering help with your AI tools.

Tip: Never give remote access to your computer unless you’ve contacted the official customer support of the company directly.

Too-Good-to-Be-True Offers:  Scams often involve promises of free AI tools or services that require you to provide personal details or download software, which could infect your device.

What to Watch For:

• Offers that sound too good to be true, such as free AI tools that normally require payment or extra benefits with no strings attached.

Tip: Be wary of “free” offers. Always verify the source before downloading anything.

How to Stay Safe

• Verify the Source: Always check that the website or app comes from a trusted company before entering any personal information.
• Use Trusted Websites: Only download AI tools from official app stores or well-known websites.
• Check Reviews: Look for user reviews and ratings before trying out new AI tools.
• Ignore Unsolicited Messages: Be wary of unexpected messages or emails that offer AI tools or support, especially if they ask for personal or financial information

Use Trusted Sources

• Official Apps and Websites: Only download apps or access AI tools from official app stores (like the Google Play Store or Apple App Store) or reputable websites. These platforms have vetting processes that reduce the risk of malicious apps.

Anonymous or Minimal Data Use

• Limit Data Collection: Many AI tools don’t require personal information. Tools like Google Arts & Culture or AI art generators don’t need sensitive details to function.
• Use Anonymous Options: There are some options where AI tools don’t make you create accounts or share personal information unless absolutely necessary.

AI Isn’t Perfect

• Explain Limitations: AI tools are not infallible, and they don’t “know” everything. If something seems off or if they’re uncomfortable, they can always stop using the tool and seek help or guidance.