Never type these in
- Passwords, PINs and the codes sent to your phone.
- Bank account, card or superannuation numbers.
- Your tax file number, Medicare number, passport or driver licence number.
- Your full name, address and date of birth together.
- Private details about other people, such as a friend's health or a family member's money troubles.
You can still get help
Leave the private details out, or change them. A chatbot can help you write a letter to your bank without knowing your account number. Write "[account number]" where it goes and fill it in yourself later.
Instead of
My name is Margaret Smith, I live at 12 High St and my Medicare number is ...
Try
Help me write a short letter asking for a copy of my records. I will add my details myself.
Check the settings
Many chatbots have a setting that stops your conversations being used to train the product, and a way to delete your chat history. Look for "Settings", "Privacy" or "Data controls". If you are not sure, ask someone you trust to look with you.
Try this
- Open the settings in a chatbot you have tried.
- Find where your chat history is kept, and how to delete it.
- Look for a setting about using your chats to improve the product, and choose what you are comfortable with.
Safety tip
No real bank, government agency or chatbot needs your password. Anyone who asks for it is not to be trusted.