NITDA Cautions Nigerians on Sharing Data with AI Tools

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) issued a warning to Nigerians regarding the sharing of sensitive personal information, such as identification numbers, bank details, photographs, and medical results, on artificial intelligence platforms. This advisory, titled “Advisory on the Safe Use of AI Platforms,” was published on NITDA's website.

The agency noted that many users are increasingly utilizing AI chatbots and assistants like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Copilot, and Meta AI for various purposes, including schoolwork and job applications. NITDA cautioned that information shared on these platforms may be stored beyond users' control, potentially leading to data breaches, identity theft, and financial fraud.

The agency recommended that users anonymize or pseudonymize their personal information and verify the privacy terms of AI platforms before use. Additionally, NITDA urged organizations to implement AI governance policies and adhere to existing data protection regulations.

The advisory concluded with the message: “Think Before You Prompt.”.