Is It Safe to Use ChatGPT? What Should I Never Type?
Is it safe to use ChatGPT? What should I never type? It can be used safely if you keep some things out of it. Never type: passwords, bank or card numbers, Social Security numbers, Medicare or health insurance numbers, or your date of birth. Fine to type: recipe questions, a letter you want reworded, a trip you are planning, a word you want explained.
Remember it can be wrong
AI can sound sure and still be wrong. Check anything about health, money or the law with a professional.
We practice this habit in our live Zoom classes, 12 people at most, taught by Holden Eckard. Your first class is free, then $46 a month if you choose to stay.
Last checked: October 2026. Please check anything important yourself.
What can go wrong
Using it safely, step by step
- Use the real site or app. Type chatgpt.com yourself or install the app from your phone's official store.
- Use a strong password and two-step sign-in. A password manager can help.
- Keep sensitive details out. Leave out Social Security numbers, account numbers and passwords.
- Review the data settings. Find the options for chat history and training and set them as you prefer.
- Verify the important answers. Check health, legal and money advice with a professional or an official source.
Spotting fakes
Want to try it with a friendly teacher?
Join a free live class on Zoom. Small group, no experience needed, no card.
Reserve a free seatCommon questions
Is it safe to type my bill or a letter in?
Type only the part you need help with, and leave out account numbers, your date of birth and anything private. We practice exactly this in class.
What if I already typed something I should not have?
Do not panic. Change any password you shared, tell your bank if it involved a card or account, and from now on keep those items out.