August 25, 2025
The buzz around artificial intelligence (AI) is undeniable—and for good reason. Innovative tools like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot are revolutionizing how businesses operate. From crafting content and answering customer queries to drafting emails, summarizing meetings, and even aiding with coding or spreadsheets, AI is transforming workflows.
AI can dramatically boost productivity and save valuable time. However, like any powerful technology, improper use can lead to serious risks, especially when it comes to safeguarding your company's sensitive data.
Small businesses are not immune to these risks.
The Core Issue
The challenge isn't the AI itself but how it’s employed. When employees input confidential information into public AI platforms, that data might be stored, analyzed, or even used to train future AI models—potentially exposing regulated or private information without anyone’s knowledge.
For example, in 2023, Samsung engineers unintentionally leaked internal source code through ChatGPT. This breach was so significant that Samsung prohibited the use of public AI tools company-wide, as reported by Tom's Hardware.
Imagine a similar scenario in your business: an employee pastes sensitive client financial or medical data into ChatGPT for a quick summary, unaware of the risks. Within moments, confidential information could be compromised.
Emerging Danger: Prompt Injection
Beyond accidental leaks, cybercriminals are leveraging a sophisticated tactic called prompt injection. They embed harmful instructions within emails, transcripts, PDFs, or even YouTube captions. When AI tools process this content, they can be manipulated into revealing sensitive information or executing unauthorized commands.
Simply put, the AI unknowingly aids attackers by following deceptive prompts.
Why Small Businesses Are Especially at Risk
Many small businesses lack oversight on AI usage. Employees often adopt AI tools independently, with good intentions but without clear policies or training. They may mistakenly treat AI platforms like enhanced search engines, unaware that pasted data can be permanently stored or accessed by others.
Furthermore, few organizations have established guidelines to govern AI use or educate staff on safe data sharing practices.
Immediate Steps to Protect Your Business
You don’t have to eliminate AI from your operations, but you must implement controls to ensure safety.
Start with these four key actions:
1. Develop a clear AI usage policy.
Specify which AI tools are approved, identify data types that must never be shared, and designate a point of contact for questions.
2. Train your team.
Educate employees about the risks of public AI platforms and explain threats like prompt injection to increase awareness.
3. Adopt secure AI solutions.
Encourage use of enterprise-grade tools such as Microsoft Copilot that provide enhanced data privacy and compliance controls.
4. Monitor AI usage actively.
Keep track of which AI tools are in use and consider restricting access to public AI platforms on company devices if necessary.
The Bottom Line
AI is an integral part of the future. Companies that master secure AI use will gain a competitive edge, while those neglecting risks leave themselves vulnerable to cyberattacks, regulatory breaches, and costly data leaks. Just a few careless keystrokes can jeopardize your entire business.
Let's discuss how to safeguard your company’s AI use. We’ll help you create a robust, secure AI policy and protect your data—without hindering your team’s efficiency. Call us today at 907-865-3100 or click here to schedule your Discovery Call.
