Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, and other AI assistants are becoming more common every day.
People use AI to:
- Write emails
- Ask questions
- Plan holidays
- Learn new skills
- Get help with technology
- Generate ideas
AI can be incredibly useful, but it is important to understand that there are some things you should never share with an AI tool.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything in plain English and show you how to use AI safely and confidently.
Is It Safe to Use AI?
For most everyday tasks, AI is generally safe to use.
Examples include:
- Asking general questions
- Learning about a topic
- Writing a shopping list
- Drafting an email
- Planning a trip
- Understanding technology
However, AI should not be treated like a private diary, bank manager, doctor, or lawyer.
Always think carefully before sharing personal information.
Never Share Passwords
This is one of the most important rules.
Never type:
- Email passwords
- Online banking passwords
- Social media passwords
- PIN numbers
- Security codes
Even if an AI asks for them, do not provide them.
Legitimate AI tools do not need your passwords to answer questions.
Example
❌ My email password is BlueSky123
❌ My online banking PIN is 4567
✅ How do I create a stronger password?
Never Share Banking Information
Do not share:
- Bank account numbers
- Debit card details
- Credit card details
- Sort codes
- Security codes
AI tools cannot manage your money and do not need this information.
Example
❌ My card number is 1234 5678 9012 3456
✅ How can I keep my online banking secure?
Be Careful With Personal Information
Avoid sharing information that could identify you.
Examples include:
- Full address
- Date of birth
- Passport number
- Driving licence number
- National Insurance number
- Copies of important documents
General questions are fine.
Personal details are not necessary.
Example
❌ I live at 123 Example Street and need help with…
✅ I live in the UK and need help with…
Don’t Upload Private Documents
Many AI tools allow users to upload files.
Before uploading anything, ask yourself:
Would I be happy if this information became public?
Documents to avoid uploading include:
- Bank statements
- Medical records
- Legal documents
- Personal contracts
- Identity documents
If a document contains sensitive personal information, it is usually best not to upload it.
Should You Share Medical Information?
AI can explain medical terms and general health topics.
However, it should not replace professional medical advice.
Avoid sharing:
- Detailed medical records
- Hospital letters
- Sensitive health information
Instead, ask general questions.
Example
❌ Uploading a full medical report
✅ What is high blood pressure?
Should You Share Work Information?
If you use AI at work, be careful.
Many employers have rules about what can be shared with AI tools.
Avoid uploading:
- Customer information
- Confidential company documents
- Financial reports
- Internal emails
Always follow your employer’s policies.
Can AI Be Wrong?
Yes.
AI is impressive, but it can make mistakes.
Sometimes AI may:
- Misunderstand a question
- Provide outdated information
- Present incorrect facts confidently
- Miss important details
Always double-check important information.
This is especially important for:
- Medical advice
- Financial decisions
- Legal matters
- Government forms
Safe Things To Ask AI
There are many useful and safe ways to use AI.
Examples include:
✅ Explain a technology term
✅ Help me write an email
✅ Create a shopping list
✅ Explain a smartphone setting
✅ Summarise a news article
✅ Suggest holiday ideas
✅ Explain computer problems
These are excellent uses of AI.
Quick Safety Checklist
Before pressing Enter, ask yourself:
☐ Am I sharing a password?
☐ Am I sharing banking details?
☐ Am I sharing personal documents?
☐ Am I sharing private information?
☐ Would I be comfortable if somebody else saw this?
If the answer is no, don’t share it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can AI see my passwords?
Only if you type them into the AI. Never enter passwords into AI chat tools.
Can AI access my bank account?
No. AI cannot access your bank account unless you give information to a separate connected service.
Is ChatGPT safe for beginners?
Yes, for general questions and learning. Just avoid sharing sensitive personal information.
Should children use AI?
Children should use AI with parental guidance and understand basic online safety rules.
Can AI replace a doctor or lawyer?
No. AI can provide information, but professional advice should come from qualified experts.
Final Thoughts
AI can be a fantastic tool for learning, solving problems, and saving time.
The key is to use it wisely.
Remember:
✅ Ask questions
✅ Learn new things
✅ Use AI for everyday help
❌ Never share passwords
❌ Never share banking details
❌ Never upload sensitive personal documents
By following these simple rules, you can use AI safely and confidently.
Internal Links
Link naturally to:
- What Is AI? (Simple Explanation for Beginners)
- Is AI Safe to Use? (Simple Guide for Beginners)
- How to Use AI to Write an Email (Step-by-Step for Beginners)
- Keeping Children Safe Online (Simple Guide for Parents)
- How to Spot and Avoid Online Scams (when published)
Latest posts below: