The National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) has issued a warning about the security risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots, highlighting concerns over the potential leakage of sensitive information.
The advisory points out the growing use of AI chatbots, like ChatGPT, in both professional and personal settings, where they are utilized to enhance productivity and engagement. However, it also raises alarms about the risks of AI chatbots storing sensitive data, including business strategies and private conversations.
As AI chatbots increasingly handle sensitive information, the advisory warns that data exposure is a significant concern. Conversations with these tools can unintentionally lead to the leakage of personal or confidential information. Moreover, AI chatbots are vulnerable to social engineering attacks, where cybercriminals use phishing techniques to deceive users into revealing private details.
The CERT has emphasized the need for a robust framework to prevent cyber threats linked to AI chatbots. It recommends that users refrain from sharing sensitive data with chatbots and urges organizations to conduct regular security scans to protect against vulnerabilities.
To further mitigate risks, the advisory advises users to disable features that save chat histories and to delete conversations containing sensitive information. Additionally, organizations are encouraged to employ monitoring tools to detect suspicious chatbot activity.
