The real risk
The biggest AI security risk for most businesses is not a sophisticated attack. It is an employee pasting a customer list, a contract or source code into a free tool that may store it, use it for training or expose it in a breach.
Know where your data goes
Before approving any AI tool, find out:
- Whether your inputs are stored, and for how long
- Whether inputs are used to train the provider's models
- Where the data is processed and which laws apply
- Whether the business plan offers stronger privacy terms than the free version
Business and enterprise plans often include stronger guarantees. Read the terms rather than assuming.
Set simple rules for the team
- Use only company-approved AI tools for work
- Never enter passwords, payment details or personal data about customers
- Remove names and identifiers from documents before summarising them
- Treat AI output as a draft that someone must check
Watch for new attack types
AI systems that read emails, web pages or documents can be targeted with prompt injection: hidden instructions that try to make the AI leak data or take unwanted actions. Limit what connected AI assistants can access and require approval for sensitive actions.
Keep the basics strong
Multi-factor authentication, least-privilege access, regular backups and staff training protect AI tools just as they protect everything else. AI does not replace good security habits; it makes them more important.