ChatGPT is a popular artificial intelligence, yes, but not all of its reputation is positive. A few weeks ago, we reported that Italy had blocked OpenAI‘s AI after raising concerns about the provenance of the data used to train it. A concern shared by Canada, which is investigating the software company and could lead to a future ban in the country.
Now, the technology companies themselves are also “on edge” about the unstoppable development of AI and the collection of data by companies such as OpenAI. As we know thanks to Bloomberg, Samsung has banned the use of ChatGPT and other generative artificial intelligences in all its devices and internal networks.
And no wonder. The Korean company’s ban comes just weeks after it was discovered that some of its employees “leaked internal source code by uploading it to ChatGPT”. While many computer scientists use this type of AI to improve their code, uploading such sensitive information to an external server can expose companies and cause irreversible damage.
But the problem is no longer just the potential leak of a company’s source code (which is already serious), but the collection of all kinds of private or sensitive data from ordinary people. Generative text tools, commonly known as “chatbots”, are also used for basic day-to-day functions such as writing emails or doing academic work – actions that could allow OpenAI and other companies to access this kind of data.
And these are not mere suspicions. In its FAQ, OpenAI states that it reviews users’ conversations with ChatGPT to improve its systems and ensure that it complies with its policies and security requirements. Similarly, it also advises its users “not to share sensitive information in their conversations” and specifically notes that any conversations can also be used to train future versions of ChatGPT.
As may be obvious, Samsung isn’t too happy about its employees using AI and potentially sharing sensitive information, so it has begun to take action: “Headquarters is reviewing security measures to create a safe environment to securely use generative AI to improve employee productivity and efficiency,” the company says in an internal memo shared by Bloomberg. “However, until these measures are in place, we are temporarily restricting the use of generative AI.”
Samsung has not only moved to ban the use of generative artificial intelligences on all of the company’s electronic devices, but has also expressly asked its employees not to share business information with any AI when using their personal devices.
“We ask that you diligently adhere to our security guidelines and failure to do so may result in a breach or compromise of company information resulting in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment,” read the internal memo, the authenticity of which was confirmed by Samsung itself.
Samsung would thus join other companies and institutions that have banned the use of ChatGPT and other generative AIs for various reasons. Many banks, such as JPMorgan, Deutsche Bank, Wells Fargo, Bank of America, Goldman Sachs and Citigroup have banned the use of AI for security reasons. In addition, several schools in New York have banned their use to prevent students from cheating, as well as for being exposed to misinformation.
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