With artificial intelligence (AI) tools and smart devices becoming integral to daily life, traditional online safety habits are increasingly insufficient. Cybersecurity experts are warning users to exercise caution when sharing personal photos and sensitive information online.
In a recent advisory, Kaspersky, a global cybersecurity and digital privacy firm, highlighted that AI agents, chatbots, and multimedia-generating apps, though convenient and entertaining, carry significant privacy risks.
“Uploading high-resolution photos or personal information carries privacy implications. Facial images can function as biometric identifiers, and once shared with an online service, be it AI or a social network, control over how that data is stored or reused may be limited,” the company said.
The firm noted that the rapid growth of AI-powered applications, always-on services, and connected devices has transformed online interactions, creating new vulnerabilities. From sophisticated scams to privacy breaches, the risks are rising as users grow more reliant on digital systems.
This warning comes as Kaspersky revealed earlier this year that over the past 12 months it detected nearly 6.7 million phishing attacks impersonating online stores, payment systems, and banks, with 55.6 percent specifically targeting online shoppers.
In Nigeria, where millions of people regularly use mobile banking, e-commerce, social media, and digital entertainment, the risk of falling victim to online scams is especially high. This vulnerability is heightened as Nigerians and citizens across other African countries increasingly experiment with AI apps like ChatGPT, Gemini, and image-generating platforms to create digital content or enhance photos.
The combination of heavy digital engagement and growing reliance on online services makes users prime targets for fraudsters who exploit familiar platforms and trusted brands.
Kaspersky also highlighted the rise of AI-enhanced scams, which often mimic legitimate verification processes to trick users into revealing sensitive information such as login credentials or payment details. Users’ automatic responses to frequent security prompts can make them particularly susceptible.
To stay safe online, the cybersecurity firm urged users to be cautious when responding to verification requests, advising that codes or personal information should always be independently verified through official channels before being shared.
It also recommended cultivating responsible habits around AI tools. According to Kaspersky, while AI agents, chatbots, and multimedia-generating apps offer convenience and entertainment, uploading personal data carries privacy risks. Reviewing privacy policies, limiting personal data shared, and avoiding confidential documents are key steps in reducing exposure.
For parents, the advisory emphasised the importance of guiding children in safe AI use. While AI tools can make education interactive and gamified, children may use them for homework support or entertainment without understanding how their data is handled or how to critically evaluate responses. Open conversations about responsible AI use, privacy awareness, and not oversharing personal information can help children build safe digital habits early.
The firm also stressed the need to regularly audit digital footprints. Dormant accounts, unused apps, and forgotten subscriptions accumulate personal data and payment details over time, increasing the risk of exposure. Reviewing subscriptions, deleting inactive accounts, and checking which apps have access to personal information can help reduce these risks.
Device and home security were also highlighted as crucial. Older devices that no longer receive security updates may contain vulnerabilities, making them targets for cyberattacks. Ensuring that smartphones, laptops, routers, and smart home devices run the latest firmware, are protected with strong passwords and multi-factor authentication, and have default passwords changed, was advised. Securing home Wi-Fi networks is equally important for protecting both personal data and physical spaces.
Brandon Muller, Kaspersky’s technical expert for the Middle East and Africa region, emphasised that technology evolves quickly and online behavior must keep pace. Users should regularly review privacy settings, app permissions, and connected third-party services, removing anything unnecessary. “By being deliberate about what we share, how we verify requests, and how we manage our devices, we can significantly reduce exposure to modern cyber risks while enjoying the benefits of new technologies,” he said.
As AI becomes increasingly embedded in everyday life, Kaspersky concluded that cybersecurity is less about dramatic measures and more about consistent, informed habits. Careful, deliberate online behavior remains the most effective defense against emerging digital threats.
