Character AI refers to artificial intelligence systems designed to imitate real people or imaginary characters so that they can chat and interact with users in lifelike ways.
What is Character AI and how does it work?
Chat bots and apps based on Character AI assume personalities, respond contextually, and evolve through conversations. They can be versatile tools for gaming, storytelling, virtual companionship, or customer engagement.
Like all AI-based tools, Character AI generates responses based on user inputs. Use cases include:
- Virtual assistants and chat companions.
- Creative writing and content generation.
- Interactive learning in educational settings.
- Customer service bots.
According to Demandsage, around 20 million people use Character AI each month, and there are more than 18 million unique chatbots based on it. Almost two-thirds of users are between 18 and 24 years old.
As with all AI tools, it’s important to use them safely and responsibly, and understand their potential impact on your digital footprint.
Digital footprint definition
Every time you use the Internet, you generate data. The topics you search for, the websites you visit, your posts and comments on social media, your online purchases, and even your emails are tracked and measured.
Together, this data forms a trail of information about you, including your whereabouts, your interests, your values and opinions, and the things you like and dislike.
Your digital footprint can be:
- Active, based on information that we share intentionally.
- Passive, using data collected without direct input, such as our browsing habits, IP address, and location.
A large digital footprint can increase your risk of:
- Identity theft
- Targeted scams
- Unwanted profiling or surveillance
Does character AI contribute to your digital footprint?
AI is built on data. AI models absorb, process, and remember the data you share. Prompts and user inputs are often stored, temporarily or permanently, so they can be used to enhance the tools.
How interactions with Character AI generate data
Every conversation you have with a Character AI leaves behind data that builds a detailed profile about you. This data includes:
- Chat content and interaction history.
- Usage frequency and session length.
- Device information and IP addresses.
Data storage and sharing practices of Character AI platforms
Many Character AI providers store data on cloud servers. They might share anonymised or aggregated information with third parties, including advertisers or analytics firms.
However, their level of transparency varies widely, and users may not always know the full extent of data collection or sharing.
Potential risks of expanded digital footprints through AI use
The more information AI gathers about you, the greater the risk becomes if this data falls into the wrong hands.
An enlarged digital footprint can increase your exposure to risks such as:
- Data breaches and leaks.
- Unauthorised profiling or behavioural targeting.
- AI-driven manipulation, misinformation, or fake news.
Ethical considerations and privacy concerns around Character AI
AI has the potential to change the world for the better, but it also creates dangers and complex ethical problems.
User consent and transparency
Many AI platforms still face challenges in delivering clear, understandable consent options. Users may be unaware of what data the platform collects and how it’s used, making it difficult for them to give genuine informed consent.
Ethical practices call for transparent privacy policies and easy-to-use consent mechanisms.
Risks of data misuse or profiling
Data collected by Character AI can be repurposed for profiling or sold to third parties. This could lead to privacy issues, such as invasive marketing or discrimination.
Without safeguards, providers of AI platforms may struggle to protect their users’ privacy or keep their trust.
Emerging regulations and their impact on AI privacy
Regulations such as GDPR and CCPA are shaping how AI solution providers must handle personal data.
These regulations emphasise data minimisation, user rights, and accountability, pushing Character AI platforms to adopt stronger privacy protections.
How to manage your digital footprint when using Character AI
When you use a Character AI tool, it’s important to think carefully and take advantage of features and settings that can help to protect your privacy.
Best practices for privacy protection and data minimisation
Protect yourself by adopting these habits:
- Avoid sharing your personal details or sensitive information when you interact with AI.
- Don’t use your real name. Adopt a pseudonym or an online persona instead.
- Clear your chat histories regularly, where possible.
- Read the platform’s privacy policies carefully. Do your best to understand what data the platform collects, how that data will be used, and what you’re consenting to.
Tools and settings to control your data on AI platforms
Where possible, configure the platform you’re using to:
- Restrict the sharing of data with third parties.
- Minimise data retention periods.
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) to secure your account.
Using Character AI responsibly to limit your digital exposure
Decide how much data you’re happy to expose and find the right balance between convenience and privacy. A mindful approach helps to minimise the unnecessary expansion of your digital footprint.
