Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) Resource Guide for Faculty

GAI, Personal Security, and Well Being

A Message from IT

The University of Massachusetts Global values the well-being and security of its employees and students when it comes to utilizing generative AI solutions like ChatGPT. GAI is useful but can be a substantial cyber security and privacy risk. We want to empower you with some helpful tips to enhance your experience while minimizing potential risks.

Guarding Sensitive Information with Care

• Keep an eye on the information you share with AI systems to ensure no unintentional disclosure of confidential data. Consider utilizing data anonymization techniques. Remove personally identifiable information (PII) to protect privacy while benefiting from AI insights.
• Always give AI-generated responses a quick double-check to make sure they don't accidentally include sensitive details.

Navigating Biases and Misinformation

• Remember that AI models learn from existing data, which may contain biases or inaccuracies.
• To ensure accuracy, fact-check information received from AI systems before entirely relying on it.

Adding Context and Clearing the Air

• Help AI systems understand you better by providing explicit and clear communication, avoiding confusion or misunderstandings.
• Be mindful that AI models might not grasp sarcasm or complex nuances.

Harnessing Your Critical Thinking

• Embrace your critical thinking skills to evaluate AI-generated responses, especially for sensitive or controversial topics.
• Recognize that AI systems have limitations, and it's essential not to rely solely on them for significant decisions.

Staying Cyber Smart against Phishing and Attacks

• Stay alert, as malicious actors can use AI for convincing phishing attempts or cybersecurity attacks.
• Exercise caution while interacting with AI-generated messages or links, and promptly report any suspicious activity to University's IT department. 

Be Cautious of Fake AI Apps

• Be careful which AI apps you use.
• With so many people interested in AI,  hackers have created fake AI apps designed to trick you into downloading them. Once downloaded, such fake apps can install malware to steal all the data on your devices. 

By embracing these guidelines, UMass Global employees can confidently navigate the world of generative AI while prioritizing safety and security. 

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact the Service Desk at servicedesk@umassglobal.edu or 949-341-9801.