Korean companies scramble to issue guidelines for ChatGPT over data leak fears

The Korea Times

The Korea Times

Business

Mon, October 2, 2023 | 13:45

Tech

Korean companies scramble to issue guidelines for ChatGPT over data leak fears

Posted : 2023-04-03 16:47

Updated : 2023-04-04 16:40

People try the ChatGPT generative AI service during an open discussion session held at Government Complex Sejong, Feb. 13. Yonhap

By Baek Byung-yeul

Samsung, SK, LG, POSCO and other companies here are scrambling to make their own guidelines for using ChatGPT and other chatbot artificial intelligence (AI) services in order to prevent problems caused by the misuse of these programs, such as information leaks, according to companies and experts, Monday.

Citing examples of overseas companies that are blocking the use of ChatGPT in their workplaces due to concerns about mishandling confidential information, companies here are also conducting campaign activities, informing their employees of the risks that may occur when they misuse these programs.

ChatGPT is a generative AI service of the U.S. company OpenAI. After its 3.5 version was unveiled in November, many people have been using the innovative technology just for fun or to ask for help in various fields including computer software programming, translation and web searches.

Samsung Electronics recently announced a message on its in-company bulletin calling attention to the misuse of ChatGPT. Managers have also trained their workers on the scope of the use of this service. These actions are aimed at preventing data leaks by sharing internal information with the chat AI, given that semiconductor-related information is a state secret.

POSCO is also allowing its employees to use ChatGPT only through a business communication platform the company is using. By allowing them to use the service only through the internal system, the company aims to strengthen security and work efficiency at the same time.

LG Display is conducting an in-company campaign and education program about protecting the company's information and preventing data leaks.

SK hynix has blocked the use of ChatGPT in its internal network. If employees want to use the service, they need to get security approvals first.

Kim Dae-jong, a professor of business administration at Sejong University, said it is necessary for private companies to come up with guidelines for appropriate use of ChatGPT and other chatbot AI services in order to prevent data leaks.

"It is reported that more people use ChatGPT to make programs or organize remarks at meetings. These actions will likely increase the probability of leaking company secrets, so private firms are being urged to come up with their own guidelines for AI services," Kim said.

The professor added that his school is also having discussions about creating guidelines to prevent students from using ChatGPT for their assignments.

"We decided during a faculty meeting to make guidelines about using ChatGPT, because the performance of ChatGPT is too good and there are concerns that it will be a problem if students abuse it," Kim said.

To better respond to ChatGPT and other AI services, the Ministry of Science and ICT conducted an education session on Monday for its employees including the minister and vice ministers.

The ministry said it invited Sung Won-yong, an honorary professor of electronics engineering at Seoul National University, to explain ChatGPT.

"As an organization responsible for science and technology, the Ministry of Science and ICT will continue creating opportunities for all employees to learn the principles of cutting-edge technologies such as AI to better establish related policies," ICT Minister Lee Jong-ho said.

baekby@koreatimes.co.kr