Copilot and other tools
At Ghent University, we advocate for using Microsoft Copilot as a safer option among existing GenAI tools. However, we do not ban the use of other GenAI tools.
Everyone at Ghent University has access to a more secure, high-performance GenAI tool: the Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat with business data protection. Copilot is an AI assistant similar to ChatGPT, which you can ask a range of questions to automate specific tasks and enhance your workflow. In the terms and conditions, Microsoft guarantees a higher level of data protection and privacy. Log in using your Ghent University account. Copilot’s free-to-use version does not include this protection.
How to Log in to Copilot Chat?
Visit M365 Copilot and log in with your Ghent University account.
If a green shield appears in the top right corner, you have logged in successfully with your Ghent University account. Hovering over the green shield will display the following message: 'Enterprise data protection applies to this chat'. This indicates that your data or input are protected.
What about Other Tools?
We do not promote Copilot Chat as the sole tool. It is entirely possible to use other GenAI tools. Explore the options on websites like thereisanaiforthat or Futurepedia. However, understand that free-to-use tools likely use your data as a form of payment, even if you use a temporary chat or select the 'do not use my data' box.
Avoid feeding free tools with privacy-sensitive, copyrighted, or confidential data without explicit consent or secure data guarantees. Always consider potential additional risks. Find more advice in Module 2.3 ‘How to Determine Responsible Use’ on the Ufora info site Generative AI: Concepts, Creations, Research and Classroom Practice.
Want to learn how to use Copilot Chat?
Visit UTOP and register for our training session Introduction to AI Tools: AI in Action (available only in Dutch).