How to Leverage AI Without Compromising Security
Copilot for Microsoft 365 ensures AI-driven efficiency without compromising confidentiality
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the way professionals analyze data, automate workflows, and boost productivity. Microsoft Copilot, an AI-powered assistant integrated into Microsoft 365, exemplifies this transformation by enabling users to swiftly process documents, generate insights, and streamline operations.
However, as organizations delve into AI's potential, it's crucial to ensure these tools align with corporate confidentiality standards. Business leaders must balance the benefits of AI with the need to protect intellectual property, financial models, confidential investor data, and personnel information. The key question is: How can businesses leverage AI while maintaining the integrity of their sensitive data?
The Risk of Public AI Tools
Many AI-powered tools, including the free version of Microsoft Copilot (built into Windows) and other publicly available AI assistants like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, lack strong confidentiality guarantees. Data entered into these systems may be processed externally, stored, or even used to train AI models. This poses a significant risk when handling sensitive corporate information.
For organizations governed by strict compliance policies, using free or consumer-grade AI tools can inadvertently expose proprietary data to third parties, increasing the likelihood of regulatory violations, data breaches, or loss of competitive advantage.
A Secure Alternative: Copilot for Microsoft 365
For businesses looking to embrace AI responsibly, Copilot for Microsoft 365 is a secure, enterprise-grade alternative. Unlike public AI models, this version of Copilot is designed to operate within an organization’s Microsoft 365 environment, adhering to established data security policies.
Key Benefits of Copilot for Microsoft 365:
Enterprise Data Protection: Copilot operates within the Microsoft 365 compliance framework, ensuring that data remains inside your secure tenant and is not used to train external AI models.
Seamless Integration: Copilot works directly within the popular applications your team already uses like Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams, along with other Microsoft 365 applications, offering AI-powered insights without exposing sensitive data to external platforms.
Regulatory Compliance: Helps businesses meet industry compliance standards by ensuring that AI tools align with internal security policies and regulatory requirements.
No Data Retention Risks: Unlike public AI tools, Copilot for Microsoft 365 does not retain or use customer prompts for AI training.
Cost and Implementation
To take advantage of Copilot for Microsoft 365, organizations need:
An active Microsoft 365 E3 or E5 license.
A Copilot for Microsoft 365 subscription, currently priced at $30 per user, per month.
Enabling this service ensures that teams can harness AI’s full potential while preserving confidentiality and compliance.
Conclusion
AI is an incredible asset for modern businesses but using it without a clear data security strategy can introduce serious risks. Copilot for Microsoft 365 provides a powerful solution — allowing organizations to unlock AI-driven efficiency without compromising confidentiality.
If your organization is interested in adopting a secure AI strategy, feel free to reach out. We’d be happy to discuss how leveraging Copilot for Microsoft 365 can help your organization safely integrate the advancements and efficiencies offered by AI into your existing IT and security priorities.