Is it safe for my parent to use ChatGPT? Privacy settings to change first

A short privacy checklist for ChatGPT and Gemini, using the companies' own help pages, plus what never to share.

AI chatbots can be helpful for older adults, as long as a few settings are changed and a few rules are clear.

ChatGPT: turn off training on chats

In the app, open the sidebar and tap the profile icon to open Settings.
Tap Data controls.
Turn off Improve the model for everyone.

OpenAI says new conversations then won't be used to train its models, and the setting applies across devices when signed in. Chats still appear in history unless deleted. OpenAI also says **Temporary Chats** aren't used for training, aren't saved in history, and are deleted from its systems after 30 days.

Gemini: review activity settings

Google explains what Gemini keeps and how to manage it on the Gemini Apps Privacy Hub. Review the activity setting there with your parent and choose what they're comfortable with.

Never share with any chatbot

Passwords or PINs
Bank, credit card, Social Security or Medicare numbers
Full address plus date of birth together
Photos of IDs, checks or medical records

Watch for fakes

Download apps only from the official developer (OpenAI for ChatGPT, Google for Gemini).
Real AI companies won't phone your parent asking for payment or "account verification."
If a pop-up says "your ChatGPT account will be closed, pay now," it's a scam.

The bottom line

With training turned off and the "never share" list taped by the computer, ChatGPT can be a useful helper. It's still not a doctor, lawyer or financial advisor.

Last checked: October 20, 2026