Where your data goes when you use an AI app
A plain comparison of what to check about privacy in free chat apps, paid plans, work accounts, the API and local models.
What happens to your text depends on the product, the plan and your settings. Providers change their terms, so use this as a checklist of questions and read the current policy of the tool you use.
| Where you type | What to check | Typical risk |
|---|---|---|
| Free chat app | Is history kept? Can chats be used to improve the model? Is there a temporary chat mode? | Your text may be stored and reviewed |
| Paid personal plan | Same settings, often with more control | Still a third-party service |
| Work or team account | Contract terms, admin rules, data retention | Your employer may see the history |
| API | Retention period, abuse monitoring, regional hosting | Depends on the agreement |
| Local model | Nothing leaves your machine | You manage security yourself |
Questions to ask before you paste
Is the conversation stored, and for how long? Can people at the company read it? Is it used to train models? Can I delete it, and is deletion permanent? Where is the data processed? If the answers are unclear, treat the text as public.
Settings worth a look
Open the data or privacy section of your account. Look for a switch about improving the model, a temporary or private chat option, an export button and a delete button. Switch off what you do not need.
Add-ons widen the exposure
A connector, plugin or MCP server can send parts of your files or inbox to the model. Check what each one can read before you connect it. See installing-plugins-skills-and-extensions.
When a local model makes sense
If the material is confidential, for example client documents or health data, run a model on your own computer. running-a-model-on-your-own-machine explains how.
Informational only
This guide is general information. It is not legal, medical, financial or professional advice, and the details change. You use it at your own risk, and we are not liable for any loss or damage that follows. See the disclaimer.
Notes from the author
Policies change. Check the date on the provider privacy page and revisit your settings when you get a notice about new terms.
For information only, not professional advice. You use it at your own risk and we are not liable for any loss or damage. See the disclaimer.
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