ChatGPT User Data Collection Increases by 70%

According to the latest analysis by Surfshark, popular AI (Artificial Intelligence) chatbot apps are collecting a variety of information, including contact information, search and browsing history, and other user content. Furthermore, the percentage of AI chatbots collecting user location data has increased from 40% last year to 70% this year.

All AI chatbot apps analyzed in this report collect some form of user data, with an average of 14 out of a maximum of 35 data points being collected.

Thomas Stamulis, Chief Security Officer (CSO) at Surfshark (hereinafter referred to as "he"), stated:

"User data collection by chatbots is becoming increasingly aggressive. Our research shows that 70% of popular AI apps collect location data, a significant increase from 40% last year. This expanding trend in data collection is also seen in ChatGPT, which recently expanded its collection scope by 70%, including health and fitness information, search history, and voice data.

Unlike traditional search engines, these AIs handle extremely sensitive data such as tax documents and medical records. This information may be shared with large third-party networks for targeted advertising.

To protect your privacy, it is important to be aware that all prompts can be considered information that may be made public. Please review your settings, delete your chat history, and never input information you would not want to be made public."

Meta AI Collects the Most Data Among AI Chatbots, Followed by Gemini and ChatGPT

Among the apps analyzed, Meta AI continues to collect the most user data, acquiring 33 out of 35 data points, approximately 95%. Meta AI is the only one collecting data in the financial information category. Additionally, Meta AI and Google Gemini collect sensitive information, including race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, pregnancy/childbirth, disability, religion/beliefs, trade union membership, political opinions, genetic information, and biometric data.

Google Gemini collects 23 out of 35 data points. It acquires a wide range of data, including contact information such as name, email address, and phone number, user content, contacts (device address book information), search history, browsing history, and precise location data. Such extensive data collection may feel excessive and somewhat intrusive to users who prioritize privacy and security.

According to Apple's App Store information, developers indicate that ChatGPT may currently collect 17 out of 35 data points. This is a significant increase compared to the AI chatbot survey conducted last year.