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 handling customer inquiries to drafting emails, summarizing meetings, and even supporting coding or spreadsheet tasks, AI is transforming productivity.
While AI can dramatically save time and boost efficiency, it must be used wisely. Missteps can lead to serious risks, especially concerning your company's data security.
Even small businesses face these threats.
Understanding the Core Issue
The technology itself isn’t the problem—it’s how it’s applied. When employees input sensitive information into public AI platforms, that data might be stored, analyzed, or even used to train future AI models. This can inadvertently expose confidential or regulated information without anyone realizing it.
For example, in 2023, Samsung engineers accidentally uploaded internal source code to ChatGPT, causing a major privacy breach. This incident led Samsung to ban the use of public AI tools within the company, as reported by Tom's Hardware.
Imagine a similar slip in your office—an employee pastes client financial or medical data into ChatGPT to "get help summarizing," unaware of the risks. In moments, sensitive information is compromised.
Emerging Danger: Prompt Injection Attacks
Beyond accidental leaks, cybercriminals are exploiting a sophisticated tactic known as prompt injection. They embed malicious commands in emails, transcripts, PDFs, or even YouTube captions. When AI tools process this content, they can be manipulated into revealing sensitive information or performing unauthorized actions.
Simply put, the AI unknowingly aids the attacker.
Why Small Businesses Are Especially at Risk
Many small businesses lack oversight on AI usage. Employees often adopt new AI tools independently, usually with good intentions but without proper guidance. They may mistakenly believe AI platforms function like enhanced search engines, unaware that their input could be permanently stored or accessed by others.
Furthermore, most companies haven’t established clear policies or training on safe AI practices.
Take Action Today to Protect Your Business
Banning AI isn’t necessary—but taking control is essential.
Start with these four critical steps:
1. Establish a clear AI usage policy.
Specify which AI tools are authorized, define sensitive data restrictions, and designate a point of contact for questions.
2. Train your team.
Educate employees about the risks of public AI tools and explain threats like prompt injection.
3. Adopt secure AI platforms.
Encourage the use of enterprise-grade AI solutions like Microsoft Copilot that prioritize data privacy and compliance.
4. Monitor AI activity.
Keep track of AI tools in use and consider restricting access to public AI platforms on company devices if necessary.
The Bottom Line
AI is transforming business for the long haul. Companies that master secure AI practices will gain a competitive edge, while those ignoring the risks expose themselves to hackers, compliance issues, and more. Just a few careless keystrokes can jeopardize your entire operation.
Let's have a quick conversation to ensure your AI usage safeguards your company. We'll help you craft a robust, secure AI policy and protect your data without slowing your team down. Call us at 720-449-3379 or click here to schedule your 15-Minute Discovery Call today.
