By johnathan 
Artificial intelligence has revolutionized how we interact with technology, but not all conversations are safe to have with AI. While ChatGPT is designed to be helpful, there are certain things you should never share with it—or any other AI chatbot.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- Why privacy matters with AI
- The 10 things you should never tell ChatGPT
- Potential risks of oversharing
- How to stay safe while using AI
Why You Should Be Careful What You Tell AI
AI chatbots like ChatGPT process and store conversations to improve their responses. While companies claim data is anonymized, there’s always a risk of:
- Data leaks (hacks or accidental exposure)
- Misuse of personal information (training future AI models)
- Legal or security risks (if sensitive info is logged)
Even if an AI seems “private,” treat it like a public forum—never share anything you wouldn’t want exposed.
10 Things You Should Never Tell ChatGPT
1. Your Full Name, Address, or Phone Number
🔴 Why it’s risky: AI logs conversations, and if breached, this info could be used for identity theft.
🟢 Safe alternative: Use generic terms like “my city” instead of specifics.
2. Passwords or Financial Details
🔴 Why it’s risky: Hackers target AI databases. Even if encrypted, stored chats could be compromised.
🟢 Safe alternative: Never ask AI to store or generate passwords.
3. Confidential Work Documents or Trade Secrets
🔴 Why it’s risky: Your employer could sue you if proprietary info leaks via AI.
🟢 Safe alternative: Use hypothetical examples without real data.
4. Illegal Activities or Threats
🔴 Why it’s risky: AI companies may report harmful content to authorities.
🟢 Safe alternative: Don’t joke about illegal actions—AI doesn’t understand sarcasm well.
5. Private Health Information (Medical Records, Diagnoses)
🔴 Why it’s risky: HIPAA (or similar laws) don’t protect AI chats.
🟢 Safe alternative: Ask general health questions without personal details.
6. Someone Else’s Secrets or Personal Info
🔴 Why it’s risky: You could violate their privacy if data is exposed.
🟢 Safe alternative: Keep others’ info out of AI conversations entirely.
7. Exact Travel Plans or Home Security Details
🔴 Why it’s risky: Revealing “I’ll be on vacation from X to Y” could make you a target.
🟢 Safe alternative: Keep travel discussions vague.
8. Emotional or Manipulative Prompts (E.g., “Help Me Cheat”)
🔴 Why it’s risky: AI can reinforce harmful behaviors if misused.
🟢 Safe alternative: Seek professional help for serious issues.
9. Copyrighted or Sensitive Government Information
🔴 Why it’s risky: Sharing classified or copyrighted material could have legal consequences.
🟢 Safe alternative: Stick to publicly available knowledge.
10. Deeply Personal or Traumatic Experiences
🔴 Why it’s risky: AI isn’t a therapist—data could be used in unintended ways.
🟢 Safe alternative: Talk to a real counselor instead.
What Happens If You Accidentally Share Something Risky?
If you’ve already shared sensitive info:
- Delete the chat (if the platform allows).
- Check the AI’s privacy policy to see if you can request data removal.
- Monitor for misuse (e.g., unusual bank activity if financial details were shared).
How to Use AI Safely
✅ Assume everything you type is stored.
✅ Use anonymous accounts where possible.
✅ Avoid uploading sensitive documents.
✅ Don’t rely on AI for legal/medical advice.
Conclusion: Treat AI Like a Stranger
ChatGPT is a powerful tool, but it’s not your lawyer, doctor, or best friend. Always think before you type—once information is shared, you can’t fully take it back.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy AI’s benefits without risking your privacy or security.
Final Tip: If unsure whether something is safe to share, don’t share it. When in doubt, stay vague.
Would you like a downloadable checklist version of these warnings? Let me know in the comments!