March 2024: Phaseout Notice + AI Considerations for Small Manufacturers

March 2024 Technology Update

Everyone –

This month I want to talk about 2 things:

1. We are phasing out Telegram in favor of Signal. This is why…
2. AI and Personal Data Privacy Recommendations for Small Manufacturers

Migration From Telegram to Signal

In our constant efforts to maintain the highest level of cybersecurity, we have decided to start phasing out our Telegram chats in favor of Signal. Here are 4 reasons why:

1. End-to-End Encryption by Default: Signal encrypts all messages end-to-end by default, ensuring that only the sender and recipient can read them. Telegram, however, only offers end-to-end encryption in “Secret Chats” and not for regular messages.
2. Open Source: Signal’s code is open source, allowing for independent verification of its security and privacy features. Telegram’s client-side code is open source, but its server-side code is not, making it less transparent.
3. Data Minimization: Signal collects minimal user data, primarily the phone number, and does not store messages on its servers once delivered. Telegram collects more data and stores messages on its servers, making it potentially more vulnerable to data breaches.
4. Independent Audits: Signal undergoes regular independent security audits to identify and fix vulnerabilities, demonstrating a proactive approach to security. Telegram has faced criticism for its encryption protocol and lack of such independent verification.

AI and Personal Data Privacy Recommendations for Manufacturers

At some point you will be using AI in your workplace. And in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape,  manufacturers must navigate the complexities of utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as Chat GPT, Google Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot with a keen awareness of personal data privacy. Here are tailored recommendations to ensure your operations remain secure and compliant:

Chat GPT: Leverage this AI for customer service and content generation, ensuring all customer interactions are anonymized before processing to protect sensitive information. Implement robust access controls and data encryption to safeguard stored data.

Google Gemini: If using Gemini for predictive analytics and operational efficiency, regularly audit data inputs to exclude personally identifiable information (PII) inadvertently. Establish clear data handling policies and obtain explicit consent when necessary.

Microsoft Copilot: For this comprehensive tool that enhances productivity across various Microsoft applications, ensure that your data storage practices comply with industry standards such as GDPR or CCPA. Regularly review Microsoft’s data usage policies to stay informed about how your data is handled and processed.

Recommendations

1. **Data Minimization**: Collect only what you need. For instance, if using AI for order predictions, only gather order history and inventory levels, not customer personal details.
2. **User Consent**: Get clear permission. Before using customer data for AI-driven email marketing, ask for their consent explicitly, such as through a checkbox on a signup form.
3. **Transparency**: Be open about data use. Include a simple statement on your website explaining that AI helps improve product recommendations based on purchase history.
4. **Security Measures**: Protect data actively. If customer data is used in AI models, ensure it’s encrypted and access is restricted to authorized personnel only.
5. **Regular Audits**: Check your practices regularly. Annually review how customer data is stored and used in AI tools to ensure it meets privacy standards and regulations.

Thank you for your business and see you out there!!

Pearce and the Gang