Is ChatGPT Safe

What does ChatGP stand for

ChatGPT (also known as Chat Generative Pre-Trained Transform) is an AI-based research company called OpenAI that works by generating human-like responses to user questions. The AI software is programmed to study language models and share neutral answers to the question it is asked. For example, you could ask the chatbot to share the most useful MacBook shortcuts if you’re unfamiliar with them.

If you want to download ChatGPT on your Mac, our relevant article will walk you through the app installation. Also, remember to avoid downloading a fake copycat app that might pose a significant risk to your online information and privacy.

Is ChatGPT safe to use

We’ve been asked many times—is ChatGPT safe? We would say proceed with caution if you plan to use the app. To generate responses, it might ask you to share personal information. If you don't want your data to be put at risk of malicious activity, then limit your use.

Here are the key security risks we’ve noticed with ChatGPT:

• Unsecure data: You can never be too sure what data is being stored and how it’s being used. While ChatGPT’s security is strict, it’s not immune to hackers or leaks.
• Limited security with free membership: Unless you’re paying for a premium account, there is a limit on what security measures you can take to secure your account. For instance, disabling chat history is not possible for free users.
• Untrusted sources and external links: We’ve noticed that auto-generated links are common in many of the chatbox’s responses–these might not always be safe and could be embedded with hidden phishing malware or viruses.

Important: 

 

Some people wonder if ChatGPT contains phishing software. While that's highly unlikely, we would still advise all users to remain cautious with the chatbot. Our supporting blog can help you get familiar with what real threats could look like to ensure you stay one step ahead of suspected cyberattacks.

Is ChatGPT safe to use at work

It’s also reasonable to question ChatGPT’s security when using it at work. While it might be helpful for research tasks or summarizing reports, it’s important to consider the potential dangers. Never share information that might compromise the security of your organization.  

A note from our experts:

 

If you’re worried that ChatGPT might expose your data to potential threats, why not let MacKeeper ease your concerns? When used responsibly, ChatGPT can be a handy tool, but your safety should always come first. MacKeeper’s ID Theft Guard can check your computer for data breaches to protect you against data violations.

 

Here’s how to use MacKeeper’s ID Theft Guard:

1. Download MacKeeper.
2. Open the app, and head to ID Theft Guard.
3. Click Open.
4. Enter the email address connected to your Mac and press Start Scan.
5. Allow the tool to check for potential data leaks.

To double your efforts when securing your computer, we also recommend you check out our supporting blog article about macOS Rapid Security Response. We have steps showing you how it can be enabled on your Mac to boost your privacy online.

How dangerous is ChatGPT

We understand why you might think ChatGPT is dangerous, but we’re here to reassure you that when used correctly, it can be secure–but do proceed with caution! Risks like phishing, and data hacks could leave your information vulnerable. That’s why we strongly discourage you from sharing personal details with the app.

A tip from the MacKeeper team: 

 

Are you worried your Mac might already be compromised at the hands of an attacker or infected with a virus? Our attached blog piece will walk you through how to secure your Mac–like utilizing our Antivirus feature and much more–in case your security has been breached.

Does ChatGPT steal your data

ChatGPT is legit and shouldn't steal your data, but it may access and store all the personal details you share. This could lead to potential cybersecurity concerns. While OpenAI is legitimate and generally safe, unfortunately it's not immune to being hacked. That’s why our advice is to keep your account and computer well protected.

What personal data does ChatGPT use

OpenAI’s ChatGPT app may collect the following information:

• Account email
• Chat history
• IP address
• Device and browser info
• Location data

This personal data is usually stored within your account details. To manage your privacy settings, we advise disabling chat history and limiting the information you share in the text-box function. To do this, open your ChatGPT Settings > General.

How to use ChatGPT safely

To use the chatbot safely, even if you've seen claims that ChatGPT is bad, remember our tips below:

• Never share personal or sensitive information
• Turn off chat history
• Be aware of auto-generated links
• Read the privacy policies before using
• Supervise children using the app
• And remember it’s not a substitute for expert advice

1. Never share personal or sensitive information

You never want to share personal or sensitive information with ChatGPT or any AI Chatbot for that matter–it could lead to a data breach if their system is compromised. That’s why our advice, to keep you safe online, is to limit what you share.

2. Turn off chat history

In case you’re worried about people accessing your ChatGPT account, we’ve discovered that you can amend your settings to archive and delete your chat history. For those with a paid subscription, you’ll also be able to turn off chat completely by going to Settings > Data Controls and switching off Chat History & Training.

3. Be aware of auto-generated links

When asking questions to ChatGPT, we’ve noticed that it tends to auto-generate external links. Even though these are likely to just be sources from their collected data, we would discourage you from clicking on them, if they’re scams or viruses in disguise.

4. Read the privacy policies before using

Want to know how OpenAI plans to use or store your data? Then we would suggest you read their privacy policies before using the app. This can be found on the Open AI website, under Safety.

5. Supervise children using the app

If children intend to use the app, then we would encourage adults to supervise their use–just to ensure no personal data is shared, and the chatbot doesn’t generate any inappropriate responses.

6. And remember it’s not a substitute for expert advice

Our advice, if you plan to use the ChatGPT to get advice, is to take what it says with a pinch of salt. It might seem sophisticated, but it’s no substitute for expert advice, as it’s not a reliable resource.

Only use AI chatbots with caution and always stay protected

Just like most apps, if you use ChatGPT correctly and restrict the personal details you share, then it’s generally safe to use. The AI-software will not actively steal your information but it will collect things like IP address and other account info. So we would suggest you proceed with caution.

Want to protect yourself further? MacKeeper’s ID Theft Guard can be used to scan your email address, linked to your Mac computer, for any data leaks. That way, you’ll know if your details are at risk of cyber threats, viruses, or malicious actors. MacKeeper can monitor and secure your data before it falls into the wrong hands.