How Scammers Exploit ChatGPT to Steal Your Data and How to Stop Them

Large language models like ChatGPT are game-changers, whipping up everything from birthday card designs to apartment layouts with a single prompt. But this ease comes with a catch: your personal data could be at risk. These AI tools, while brilliant, can be exploited by scammers to dig up sensitive information with alarming ease.

Here’s the deal: ChatGPT doesn’t need fancy coding—just type a question, and it delivers. Ask about the secrecy of the papal conclave, and you’ll get a detailed rundown in seconds. But that same power lets someone craft a prompt to pull together a dossier on you, often bypassing built-in safeguards with clever wording.

Your data isn’t conjured from thin air. It’s already out there—on people-search sites, social media like LinkedIn, or public databases. People-search sites are the worst culprits, exposing addresses, relatives, and more. So, how do you fight back?

Locking Down Your Data

First, hunt down the people-search sites spilling your info. There are hundreds, so manually checking each is a slog. Instead, use AI tools to run a deep search on yourself. It’s not perfect, but it’s a start. From there, submit opt-out requests—usually found in the site’s footer under labels like “Opt-Out” or “Do Not Sell My Info.” It’s tedious, but necessary.

Want to save time? Data removal services can automate the process, sending opt-out requests to sites you didn’t even know existed. Some even offer custom removals for tricky data brokers. These services are a small effort for big privacy wins, potentially shielding you from scams or identity theft.

Smart Habits for Digital Safety

Be stingy with what you share. Avoid giving AI tools your full name, address, or financial details. Secure your accounts with strong, unique passwords—use a password manager if you can’t keep up. Enable multifactor authentication and regularly audit your account permissions. On social media, go private, limit post visibility, and cut ties with sketchy third-party apps.

Don’t skip antivirus software. It’s your shield against malware and phishing. And consider a dedicated email for opt-outs and sign-ups to keep your main inbox clean.

AI is reshaping how we work and create, but it’s a double-edged sword. Stay sharp, use privacy tools, and you can harness its power without becoming a scammer’s next target.