Data Literacy Guide

Artificial Intelligence, or AI, refers to computer systems that can perform tasks normally requiring human intelligence. These tasks include things like recognizing speech, analyzing data, generating text or images, and making decisions.

Learn more about AI in this guide: What is AI?

While AI can be incredibly useful, it also comes with risks, especially when it intersects with data, privacy, and security.

AI tools are becoming common in education, entertainment, and even daily decision-making. But these tools rely on data — your data. That means understanding how AI works also means understanding how your personal information might be used, shared, or misused.

Common AI interactions: 

• Voice assistants (like Siri or Alexa) 
• Chatbots and writing tools (like ChatGPT) 
• Content recommendations (like Netflix or TikTok) 
• Facial recognition or biometric logins

AI is being used to both protect and attack digital systems. Cybercriminals are using AI to:

• Write more convincing, very personalized phishing emails
• Automate hacking tools 
• Sort stolen data faster to find valuable targets 
• Create deepfake video/phone calls (aka “Boss Says Do It”)
• Voice Cloning scam (aka “Hi Mom, I’m in trouble. Help me!”)
• AI Chatbot Impersonations in Real Time on malicious websites (It feels like live help — until they ask for your login or SSN.)
• “Proof” Videos of you, a teacher, a friend, a family member that aren’t real but they look like you
• Reputation Hijacking / Digital Puppeteering - AI imperonates YOU online by sending emails, texts, or DMs to destroy your reputation, commit fraud, or harras others by making you the weapon

These AI-enhanced attacks happen faster and are harder to detect.

Staying Safe and Smart with AI

You don’t need to fear AI, but you do need to be aware. Here are a few tips:

• Don’t share personal info with AI tools 
• Be skeptical of overly personalized scam messages 
• Avoid downloading AI apps from unknown sources 
• Pay attention to how your data is being collected or tracked

AI writing tools can help brainstorm or generate ideas, but using them to complete assignments without permission can violate academic honesty policies. When in doubt, ask your instructor what’s allowed.

Ethical use of AI in academics means:

• Giving credit if AI helps you 
• Using it for idea development, not direct answers 
• Checking facts. However, AI can still make mistakes

Refer to your course syllabus and the student handbook for specific AI use policies. 

You can also check out this guide: Ethical Use

Want to Learn More?

Check out related sections of the Data Literacy Guide:

• Digital Privacy and Security 
• Social Engineering and AI Influence 

This page was developed by the OSUIT Office of Institutional Research as part of the Data Literacy Guide with the assistance of ChatGPT 4o.