Eight tips for using AI safely

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As artificial intelligence (AI) programs gain popularity, it's common for children to become curious about them. However, having conversations with kids about responsible and appropriate tech usage is crucial. Consider the following tips to help your family explore and learn about AI together.

How does it work?

Explain to your kids how AI technology works so they can appreciate its benefits, understand its potential limitations and learn how to use it effectively. Give them some examples they may already be familiar with to help them comprehend what it is.

How to engage with it

AI tools can help kids be creative and learn new skills. Talk to your kids about AI technology that excites them. Get them thinking about how the programs could help them learn and grow. Encourage them to be critical of the information they get from new technology and to use their creativity to complement AI.

What are the risks?

Kids should understand that AI has limitations that can cause inaccurate and biased results. Hackers can also manipulate AI by changing data, which can lead to wrong predictions. Don't forget to remind kids that AI lacks emotional understanding and cannot replace human relationships and connections.

How to use AI safely

1.  Be mindful of personal information
Kids should avoid sharing sensitive details like their full name, address, phone number or financial information unless they trust the platform and know how they handle personal data.

2.  Understand privacy settings
Take the time to review and adjust privacy settings on AI platforms according to your comfort level.

3.  Don’t overshare
Limit the amount of personal information that is publicly accessible and take note of what data is being collected.

4.  Think critically
Remember that AI systems are not perfect and can make mistakes. Ask kids to check facts, cross-reference information and consider different perspectives before reaching conclusions or making decisions based solely on AI-generated output.

5.  Report inappropriate content
If your child comes across offensive or harmful content or experiences inappropriate interactions, instruct them to report it to the platform, service provider or a trusted adult.

6.  Be cautious with AI-generated messages
If they receive unexpected or suspicious messages from AI powered accounts or chatbots, don’t share personal information or engage in chats that make them uncomfortable.

7. Don’t solely rely on AI
Avoid being overly reliant on AI for decision making. Explain that using AI for schoolwork they didn't create could be considered plagiarism or cheating. Instead, introduce educational AI tools that complement their learning.

8.  Stay informed
Keep up to date with the latest advancements and developments in AI technology to better understand AI systems' capabilities, limitations and potential risks. This knowledge will enable your family to make well-informed choices and use AI responsibly.