Responsible AI Usage

For week 3 of Cybersecurity Awareness Month in 2026, we are covering how users can use artficial intelligence (AI) responsibly.

Responsible AI Usage

As AI tools become part of everyday student life. From research to writing to studying, it’s worth taking a moment to use them safely. Before using AI for assignments, make sure you understand CSUSM’s AI usage guidelines to stay on the right side of academic expectations. It’s also important to double-check AI-generated responses, facts, and sources before relying on them for coursework or decisions. AI can sound confident while still being wrong. Never enter sensitive information like your SSN, passwords, financial details, or other people’s private data into an AI chatbot. Treat anything you type into these tools as potentially stored or reviewed, not private.

 Account Security and AI 

Good account hygiene matters here too. Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on any account connected to an AI tool. Finally, stay alert to AI-powered phishing. AI-generated emails and messages are far more convincing than they used to be, so be cautious of anything urgently asking you to click a link, make a payment, or share your login credentials. When in doubt, verify through a separate, trusted channel before acting. 

Cybersecurity Awareness Month

More information and resources on Cybersecurity Awareness Month can be found on the Cybersecurity Awareness Month landing page