As the world becomes increasingly digitized, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming more widespread. Companies are investing heavily in AI to automate tasks, enhance decision-making, and increase efficiency. However, some employees are using AI technologies like ChatGPT without their employer's knowledge, which can pose significant risks for tech leaders.
ChatGPT is an AI-powered chatbot that can generate text that is almost indistinguishable from human writing. Workers are using ChatGPT to generate emails, reports, and other documents, allowing them to complete their work faster and more efficiently. While this might seem like a harmless activity, it can create significant security risks for companies.
According to Michael Chui, a partner at the McKinsey Global Institute, workers will use AI technologies if they find them useful to do their work. However, not every company has its own GPT, so workers are finding ways to use third-party platforms. This creates significant security risks as the company has no control over the data being fed into the AI. One of the most significant risks of using AI without proper oversight is the potential for data breaches. If employees are generating sensitive documents using AI-powered chatbots, there is a risk that this data could be compromised. Companies need to ensure that their data is secured and that they are complying with data protection regulations.
Another risk of using AI without proper oversight is the potential for bias. AI algorithms are only as unbiased as the data they are trained on. If employees are using AI without proper oversight, there is a risk that these algorithms will perpetuate biases and prejudices.
Chief information security officers (CISOs) need to approach generative AI with caution and prepare with necessary cyber defense measures. They should start with the security basics and ensure that all employees are aware of the risks associated with using AI technologies without proper oversight.
If a company develops its own GPT, the software will contain the precise data that the company wishes its employees to have access to. A company can also protect the information input by its employees. However, even hiring an AI company to create this platform will allow businesses to securely feed and store data.
Overall workers using ChatGPT and other AI technologies without proper oversight can pose significant risks for tech leaders. Companies need to ensure that they are aware of these risks and take appropriate measures to mitigate them. By working closely with CISOs and AI experts, companies can ensure that their data is secure and that they are complying with data protection regulations.
