Have you ever wondered what data AI companies are taking from you?
Welcome to AI Six, the podcast for marketers embracing the AI age. I’m Joanne Sweeney, and today, I’m going behind the scenes of something we all use but rarely think about—the privacy policies of AI tools.
AI is everywhere, powering chatbots, image generators, search assistants, and more. But have you ever stopped to ask: What data are they actually collecting from us?
If you’ve ever skimmed past the terms and conditions (let’s be honest, we all do), this episode is for you. Let’s break it down.
What Data AI Tools Collect
Every time you interact with an AI tool—whether it’s ChatGPT, Google Gemini, or an AI-powered CRM—your data isn’t just disappearing into thin air.
Here’s what AI tools often track:
📌 Your inputs – Everything you type, upload, or request.
📌 Metadata – Information about when, where, and how you use the tool.
📌 Behavioural data – How long you engage, what you click on, your usage patterns.
For individuals, this might not seem like a big deal. But for businesses, government agencies, and regulated industries, it raises serious privacy concerns.
What happens when sensitive company data or customer information gets fed into an AI tool? The answer isn’t always clear.
Can AI Tools Store or Learn from Your Data?
Here’s where it gets tricky. Some AI tools store data, some don’t—but most won’t tell you upfront.
A few key things determine whether an AI model remembers what you type:
🖥 Cloud-based vs. local models – Most cloud AI tools retain some level of user data unless you explicitly disable it.
⚙️ Data retention settings – Some AI models automatically save conversations unless you opt out.
📚 Fine-tuning practices – Even if an AI model doesn’t store your exact words, it could still learn from them and influence future responses.
Key takeaway? If you’re using an AI tool for sensitive or confidential work, read the fine print before you type.
The Most Common AI Privacy Loopholes
Privacy policies are long, dense, and full of grey areas. But here are a few red flags to watch out for:
🔍 “We use data to improve our models” – Sounds harmless, but it likely means your inputs are being stored and analysed.
🔍 “We may share data with third-party partners” – Who exactly are these partners? What’s being shared?
🔍 “Anonymised data may be retained” – Even if stripped of identifiers, unique patterns can still reveal information.
For industries dealing with customer data, intellectual property, or financial information, this is a major risk.
If you don’t want your business insights, legal discussions, or customer details being part of an AI’s learning process, you need to be proactive.
How to Protect Your Data When Using AI Tools
So, what can you do to keep your information private and secure while still benefiting from AI?
🛑 Check privacy settings – Some AI tools let you disable data collection—but you have to turn it off manually.
🔒 Use enterprise versions – Business AI tools often come with stronger privacy controls than free consumer versions.
🚫 Never enter confidential information – Assume anything typed into an AI tool is public.
🏠 Consider local AI models – AI tools that run on your device rather than the cloud are far more secure.
Even OpenAI now offers a “temporary chat” mode in ChatGPT that doesn’t store conversations—but it’s not the default setting.
Will AI Privacy Get Better or Worse?
So, what’s next? AI privacy is evolving fast, and we’re already seeing big changes:
⚖️ Stronger regulations – The EU AI Act, GDPR, and upcoming AI laws will push for greater transparency.
🔐 Privacy-first AI models – Some companies are moving towards AI tools that don’t store user data at all.
🤖 The big tech challenge – AI companies need data to improve, but they also need to protect user trust.
The real question: Will AI companies prioritise user privacy, or will data collection always be their priority?
Read the Fine Print
The reality is—AI tools are collecting data, but how much depends on the tool and how you use it.
So next time you interact with an AI model, ask yourself: Do I really know what it’s taking from me?
Need More Support?
If you’re ready to explore how AI can make your marketing smarter and more efficient, check out my Professional Diploma in AI for Marketers.
Or, if you’re looking for in-company training, I can help get your team up to speed.
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About the Podcast Host
Joanne Sweeney is a specialist in public-sector marketing and digital communications. She’s the author of Public Sector Marketing Pro and the creator of the Professional Diploma in AI for Public Sector Marketing. With years of experience training, consulting, and advocating for digital transformation, Joanne provides insight and guidance for government agencies navigating the digital landscape. She is also the host of the award-winning Public Sector Marketing Show podcast.
