Samsung Bans ChatGPT-Like AI Tools: Impact on the Industry and Security Concerns

Samsung, a global tech giant, has recently imposed a company-wide ban on the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT for its employees. This decision, as reported by Bloomberg on May 2, comes in the wake of growing security concerns surrounding the rapid infiltration of these AI tools in major industries worldwide.

The ban has been implemented on all Samsung-owned devices and internal networks, as the company cited instances of sensitive code being uploaded to AI platforms. Samsung’s internal memo underlined the increasing interest in AI tools and the corresponding security risks posed by the data sent to these platforms. The company is concerned about the potential storage of data on external servers with little control over retrieval or deletion.

Samsung is currently reviewing security measures to create a secure environment for using generative AI tools to enhance employee productivity and efficiency. However, until these measures are in place, the company is temporarily restricting the use of such AI tools. Employees have also been advised against submitting company information via these tools on personal devices, with non-compliance leading to disciplinary action or termination.

A recent internal survey conducted by Samsung revealed that 65% of respondents believed generative AI tools posed a security risk. Other major companies, such as JPMorgan, Bank of America, Goldman Sachs, and Citigroup, have also restricted or banned the use of ChatGPT-like tools since the beginning of the year.

Despite these concerns, many of these companies are developing their own AI tools. JPMorgan has created a ChatGPT-based tool for analyzing Federal Reserve statements to decipher trading signals, while Samsung is working on an AI tool for translation and summarizing documents.

In summary, the recent ban imposed by Samsung on generative AI tools such as ChatGPT highlights the growing security concerns in the industry. As companies grapple with the potential risks, the development of secure and efficient AI tools is becoming a priority for businesses worldwide.