Using AI the smart way
AI can be really useful. It can explain stuff, help you practice, and make funny pictures. Here’s how to use it without getting fooled or getting hurt.
1. It’s a tool, not a friend
Some apps are built to feel like a friend who is always there. It isn’t a friend. It doesn’t know you or care about you, and it’s built to keep you talking. If an app starts to feel like your best friend, that’s a good time to talk to a real one.
2. Use it to learn, not to skip learning
Asking AI to explain something is smart. Asking it to do your homework means you don’t learn it, and your teacher might count it as cheating. Try typing: “Don’t give me the answer. Give me a hint.”
3. Keep your stuff private
Don’t type your full name, your school, where you live, or your passwords, and don’t send photos of your face. Assume the company that runs the app can read what you type.
4. It can be wrong, so check
It sounds sure even when it’s wrong. Check anything important with a teacher, a book, or a real website. Want to know why it gets things wrong? Read How AI actually works.
5. Fakes are real, and they hurt people
AI can copy a voice or put someone’s face into a picture. Never make fake pictures, voices, or videos of real people, even as a joke. It can really hurt someone, and some fakes are against the law.
If someone makes a fake picture of you, you are not in trouble. Tell an adult you trust. They can help get it taken down.
If a chatbot says something scary, asks you to keep a secret, asks for pictures, or talks about hurting yourself or anyone else: stop, close it, and tell an adult you trust. You did nothing wrong.
If you’re thinking about hurting yourself, call or text 988 any time, for free. If you need help right now, go to I need help.