Many people use Artificial Intelligence (AI) like ChatGPT daily in the office. What starts as help can quickly become a major security risk. Without enough knowledge, employees often share important information without realizing it. This opens doors for attackers who can misuse this data.
This problem is very serious. It concerns important company data and the personal safety of employees. If secret business data or private information is exposed due to careless AI use, it harms the company. It can also cost the employee their job. Anyone who believes this only affects others is mistaken.
The well-known specialist portal heise online warns of typical dangers when using Artificial Intelligence in daily work. These include data leaks when information is carelessly entered. Targeted attacks like prompt injection are also a danger. In a prompt injection, AI programs are manipulated through instructions to reveal secret information. They can also perform unwanted actions. Companies and employees are equally affected.
For private individuals and employees, this means: Every input into an AI program must be carefully checked. This applies to writing emails or creating computer code. If you type important data into an AI chat, it's like showing it publicly. Your boss could hold you responsible for it. In the worst case, you lose your job. Your good reputation on the internet is at risk.
Companies must quickly train their employees. They also need clear rules for using Artificial Intelligence. Without these steps, companies risk financial damage from data leaks. They also lose the trust of customers and partners. It is important to maintain control over one's own data and processes. These should not end up in external AI systems.
Despite the dangers, conscious use of AI programs offers great opportunities. Those who know the security rules can use Artificial Intelligence. This can simplify workflows and increase productivity. Companies that invest in training and clear rules secure a real advantage. They can implement new ideas without losing control over their data.
The biggest risk is prompt injection. An attacker can influence an Artificial Intelligence to reveal secret information. This happens even though it should not. For you, this means: A wrong click or a careless instruction can cause a data leak. Many companies also lack a clear strategy. It is often unclear which AI programs are allowed and which are not.
