**How to use AI chatbots securely**

[\\ Back to Kora Blog](https://www.korahq.com/zh-cn/blog) In Merchant Security Awareness # How to use AI chatbots securely May 11, 2026 November 28, 2024   Antonella Akosa Cybersecurity and Risk Governance Share Article [](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https://www.korahq.com/post/how-to-use-ai-chatbots-securely/)[](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?url=https://www.korahq.com/post/how-to-use-ai-chatbots-securely&title=How%20to%20use%20AI%20chatbots%20securely)[](https://twitter.com/share?text=How%20to%20use%20AI%20chatbots%20securely&url=https://www.korahq.com/post/how-to-use-ai-chatbots-securely/) # Table of contents - [The hidden risks of chatbots](https://www.korahq.com/zh-cn/blog/how-to-use-ai-chatbots-securely#toc-the-hidden-risks-of-chatbots) - [‍](https://www.korahq.com/zh-cn/blog/how-to-use-ai-chatbots-securely#toc-%E2%80%8D) - [Tips for staying safe](https://www.korahq.com/zh-cn/blog/how-to-use-ai-chatbots-securely#toc-tips-for-staying-safe) # Editor's note: ‍ AI chatbots are transforming how we use technology and have become our everyday companions. ‍ Whether rebooking a flight with an airline’s customer support chatbot, brainstorming ideas with ChatGPT, or tracking your order through an online store’s virtual assistant, AI chatbots have become an essential part of modern life. [22% of passengers around](https://simpleflying.com/air-passengers-ai-research-use-analysis/) the world use AI to prepare for their travel. ‍ These bots help us to streamline tasks and troubleshoot problems in seconds. ‍ However, while they’re convenient, users must deal with many associated risks. ‍ ## **The hidden risks of chatbots** ### **1\. Data privacy and retention issues** **‍** Chatbots often collect and store user data, which, if not properly secured, can be accessed or exploited by malicious actors. Mismanagement of retained data may also lead to privacy violations. ‍ ### **2\. Phishing and social engineering attacks** **‍** Cybercriminals can create fake chatbots or exploit legitimate ones to trick users into sharing sensitive information like passwords or financial details. ‍ ### **3\. Inaccurate or biased responses** **‍** Chatbots may provide incorrect information or reflect biases from their training data, leading to poor decisions or inappropriate interactions. ‍ ### **4\. Vulnerability to unauthorized access** **‍** Chatbots integrated into systems with insufficient security controls may inadvertently expose sensitive organizational or personal data to unauthorized users. ‍ ### **5\. Malware distribution** **‍** Malicious chatbots can distribute malware or direct users to fake links, compromising their devices and data. ## ‍ ## **Tips for staying safe** ### **1\. Be mindful of what you share** Before typing sensitive details, ask yourself: _Does this chatbot need this information?_ For instance, avoid sharing passwords, financial details, or company-specific data. Even if the chatbot seems helpful, remember it’s only as secure as the hosting platform. When in doubt, avoid sharing. ### ‍ ### **2\. Use official platforms** If you’re talking to a chatbot for customer support, ensure it’s on the official website or app. Fake chatbots often appear on phishing sites with URLs almost identical to real ones. ‍ ### **3\. Update software regularly** Ensure that your browser, operating system, and security software are always up to date. Many updates include security patches that help protect against emerging threats, including fake websites and phishing attacks. ‍ ### **4**. **Review privacy settings** Take a moment to review the chatbot’s privacy settings to understand how your data is collected, stored, and used. Look for options to limit or opt out of unnecessary data sharing. Regularly update your preferences to control your personal information and enhance your privacy. ‍ ### **5\. Report suspicious activity** If you encounter suspicious or harmful behaviour while using a chatbot, report it immediately to the service provider. This helps them to investigate and address the issue, reducing risks to other users. Most service providers have clear protocols for handling these reports, so follow their guidelines when submitting your concerns. ‍ ### **6\. Use secure channels** Only use chatbots on secure and trusted networks. Avoid using them over public Wi-Fi, as these networks are more susceptible to interception. ‍ AI chatbots are here to stay and will only get more advanced. While they’re great for efficiency, they’re not immune to exploitation. By being cautious and informed, we can make the most of this technology without putting ourselves or our organizations at risk. ‍ -- At Kora, our goal is to connect Africa to the world and connect the world to Africa via payments. For startups and businesses working in Africa, we provide All The Support You Need ™️ to start, scale and thrive on the continent. ‍ ‍ [Sign up](https://merchant.korapay.com/auth/signup?utm_source=kora_internal&utm_medium=blogpost) to see all the ways you can thrive with Kora. ## View Related Articles  In Merchant Security Awareness [Access Control: Why Least Privilege Is Critical for Business Security](https://www.korahq.com/zh-cn/blog/access-control-why-least-privilege-is-critical-for-business-security) [Access Control: Why Least Privilege Is Critical for Business Security](https://www.korahq.com/zh-cn/blog/how-to-use-ai-chatbots-securely#) June 3, 2026 May 22, 2026  In Merchant Security Awareness [Cloud Data Privacy: How to stay safe without losing convenience](https://www.korahq.com/zh-cn/blog/cloud-data-privacy-how-to-stay-safe-without-losing-convenience) [Cloud Data Privacy: How to stay safe without losing convenience](https://www.korahq.com/zh-cn/blog/how-to-use-ai-chatbots-securely#) May 11, 2026 April 28, 2026  In Merchant Security Awareness [Understanding data privacy: A guide for individuals and businesses](https://www.korahq.com/zh-cn/blog/data-privacy-a-guide-for-individuals-and-businesses) [Understanding data privacy: A guide for individuals and businesses](https://www.korahq.com/zh-cn/blog/how-to-use-ai-chatbots-securely#) May 11, 2026 October 22, 2025