In Google Bard’s latest update, the AI chatbot has gained impressive new features, allowing it to delve into your Google Docs, unearth ancient Gmail messages, and even scour through YouTube videos. While these advancements are exciting, it’s essential to be mindful of your privacy when interacting with this AI.
Google Bard’s default data storage settings
By default, Google Bard retains every interaction you have with the chatbot for a duration of 18 months. This includes not only your prompts but also your approximate location, IP address, and any physical addresses linked to your Google account. These interactions can potentially be selected for human review while the default settings are active.
How to disable Bard’s activity
If you want to prevent Google Bard from storing your interactions, follow these steps:
1. Go to the Bard Activity tab.
2. Disable the option to autosave your prompts.
3. You can also delete any past interactions in this tab.
By turning off Bard Activity, your new chats won’t be submitted for human review unless you specifically report an interaction to Google. However, there’s a trade-off: Disabling Bard Activity means you won’t be able to use any of Bard’s extensions connecting it to Gmail, YouTube, or Google Docs.
Deleting interactions with Bard
While you can choose to manually delete interactions with Bard, be aware that this data may not be removed from Google servers immediately. Google employs automated tools to remove personally identifiable information from selected conversations, which are then stored by the company for up to three years, even after you clear them from your Bard Activity.
Sharing Bard conversations
It’s worth noting that any Bard conversation you share with others may potentially be indexed by Google Search. To remove shared Bard links:
1. Click on Settings in the top right corner.
2. Select “Your public links.”
3. Click the trash icon to stop online sharing.
Google has stated that it’s taking steps to prevent shared chats from being indexed by Search.
Privacy of Gmail and Google docs conversations
Google asserts that conversations related to Gmail and Google Docs are never eligible for human review. Therefore, no one will read your emails or documents, regardless of your Bard Activity settings. However, how Google uses your data and interactions to train its algorithm or future chatbot iterations remains unclear.
When it comes to location data, Bard offers users the choice to share their precise location. However, even if you opt out of precise location sharing, Bard will still have a general idea of your location. Google explains that location data is collected to provide relevant responses to your queries. This data is derived from your IP address, which discloses your general location, and any personal addresses saved in your Google account. Google claims to anonymize this data by aggregating it with information from at least 1,000 other users in an area of at least 2 miles.
While Google does not provide an easy way to opt out of Bard’s location tracking, you can mask your IP address by using a virtual private network (VPN). VPNs are available for both PCs and mobile devices. To find the best VPN for your specific needs, you can refer to WIRED’s roundup of top VPN options.
In the age of AI and smart technology, it’s crucial to be aware of the data we share and take steps to protect our privacy. Google Bard’s features are undoubtedly impressive, but users should exercise caution and consider their preferences when it comes to data storage and location tracking. By following the tips and tricks outlined above, you can maintain a level of control over your interactions with Google Bard and enjoy the benefits of this innovative AI chatbot while safeguarding your personal information.
