An AI assistant is more than a model name. Depending on the product and settings, it may answer questions, work with information you provide, or connect to other accounts and services. The details vary, so I would look at the specific assistant and the access it is asking for rather than relying on a general label.
Before connecting an assistant
- What can it read or change—messages, files, calendars, contacts or other account information?
- Can you limit access to only what the task needs?
- Does it ask before taking an action, or can it act automatically?
- Where does processing happen, and what does the provider say about prompts, connected data and retention?
- How can you review or remove the connection later?
A product’s ability to connect to a service does not mean every connection is necessary. Start with a low-risk task, check the permissions, and read the provider’s current documentation. The Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada has guidance for individuals using AI chatbots, including advice about personal information and privacy settings.
This page began as notes for a possible Smart Tech for Real People topic. It is not a book announcement, and I may never publish a book about it. See the books currently available for confirmed titles.