Introduction
Do you use artificial intelligence at work? Maybe you rely on chatbots to rewrite or refine emails. Maybe you operate devices that use AI to enhance automated workplace tools.
Now that we all work with, on or alongside this kind of technology, we know that AI isn’t taking our jobs—but someone who can use AI better, might. So instead of fighting the tide of new technology, let’s embrace where the trends lead and get ahead of the associated cybersecurity risks.
Why Rely on AI?
With 35% of companies using artificial intelligence in daily operations, it’s a critical skill to understand and leverage artificial intelligence systems. Many professionals use AI to write rough drafts of their emails (or refine messages before they send it), rewrite clunky sentences, brainstorm topics and presentations, summarize documents, and so much more. Do you use these tools to help out at work?
Human error is unavoidable, and technology can help us smooth out the hiccups and mistakes in our daily job tasks. AI can become your competitive edge, but only if you know how to use it safely and effectively. Be specific with your requests, give context for what you want, and provide these tools with examples whenever possible. Using artificial intelligence is a skill, and you have to hone it to make the most of it.
So while it’s beneficial for us to partner with smart machines, we shouldn’t outsource our responsibilities to it. We’re most productive when technology and human brainpower work together!
What Happens When AI Goes Wrong
Remember, AI doesn’t “understand” anything. It simply mimics patterns. That leaves room for it to be just as confidently wrong as any intern. So remember that while these machines are a useful assistant, they are not an expert or a cure-all. It’s neither good nor bad; threat actors can use it to make more convincing cyberattacks, and security experts can implement it for your protection.
In other words, these systems have flaws. These include:
- AI may confidently generate fake news, quotes, statistics and other information.
- If you input sensitive information into these systems, that data can be read by the third party who owns the platform or service.
- AI can reflect or amplify societal or cultural biases.
- If you misuse these systems or they misdirect you, it can severely undermine your credibility.
- Copying output without editing may cross ethical lines, and AI-generated writing has been known to plagiarize.
- Smart tools may store or learn from your inputs, which leads to data leaks.
Always review and edit everything written by artificial intelligence. You don’t want to accidentally copy someone else’s work or reflect opinions that you don’t really hold.
Conclusion
While AI is a great tool for idea generation, formatting, and time-saving efforts, it’s important to validate their outputs with trusted sources and veritable facts. Ask AI specific, contextual questions to get the best answers to your questions, and leave the creativity and final decision-making up to people.
Use AI wisely and ethically. It helps to stay up to date with relevant trends, laws, and company policies to inform what you input into and how you receive information from AI systems. You can use this knowledge to help promote a culture of cybersecurity within your workplace.
Help normalize new technology in the workplace so you can all make the most of it, without compromising ethics or data privacy. Learn to use AI as a tool instead of a crutch, and maximize your productivity and efficiency at work.
The post How to Use AI Safely and Effectively in the Workplace appeared first on Cybersafe.
