Generative AI

Avoid Sharing Private or Confidential Information

Refrain from providing sensitive data such as student records, financial details, personal identifiable information (PII), intellectual property, or any other confidential material to AI systems.

Understand the Risks

Here’s why it’s dangerous to input sensitive information into AI:

• Data Breach Vulnerability: AI systems are susceptible to breaches and cyberattacks, potentially compromising confidential information stored within their databases.
• Privacy Concerns: Sharing sensitive data with AI may violate privacy regulations, exposing the university and individuals to legal repercussions.
• Ethical Considerations: Preserving the confidentiality of students' and faculty members' information is essential to maintain trust within the university community.
• Potential Misuse: Confidential data shared with AI could be misused or accessed by unauthorized entities, leading to unforeseen consequences.

For more details on different classifications of information at RIT please refer to RIT’s Information Handling Matrix. (Anyone who handles private or confidential information is required to take the Information Handling Training.)

• Do take time to understand the risks associated with GenAI technologies.
• Do take time to understand the limitations and biases embedded in GenAI tools.
• Do familiarize yourself with data protection laws (HIPAA, FERPA, etc.) to ensure you remain compliant when using GenAI tools.
• Do be cautious when paying for a GenAI tool to help ensure you are not being scammed.
• Do stick to using reputable AI sources (OpenAI, Google, Microsoft, Amazon).
• Do report any suspicious activity or potential breaches immediately to the RIT Service Center at 585-475-5000 or help.rit.edu.
• Don’t share sensitive or private information (student records, financial records, PII, etc.) with GenAI tools– unless pre-approved with RIT.
• Don’t rely solely on GenAI tools to complete tasks, answer questions, or generate any type of content.
• Do verify that the information provided through GenAI is accurate.

As we explore these new technologies and their capabilities, let’s remain aware of our data security and handling responsibilities. RIT supports the responsible use of AI services, and we encourage our students, faculty and staff to do the same. Let’s move forward together, responsibly and securely.