I’m Anirban Mitra, a certified cybersecurity expert and cybercrime criminologist. I spend most of my time studying how technology shapes human behavior and how attackers exploit the gaps we overlook. Over the past few months, I’ve noticed a growing trend that many users are celebrating without thinking twice. Several AI platforms, including ChatGPT, Perplexity and others, are offering free access to features that once required paid plans.

It looks generous. It feels exciting. But you need to pause and think about what you are giving in return.

Nothing online is truly free. When a company drops its paid barrier without warning, the exchange usually happens somewhere else. In this case, it is your data. These platforms are collecting far more than you think. They can analyze your writing style, personal questions, preferences, routines, locations and in some cases indirect clues about your identity and living patterns. When packaged together, this becomes a powerful profile of who you are.

As a cybersecurity professional, I can tell you that this kind of invisible data extraction is a long term risk. The more detailed the profile, the easier it becomes for attackers or third parties to exploit it. Most people share sensitive details with AI tools assuming the environment is harmless. That belief can cost you later.

I’m not telling you to stop using AI. I use these tools too. But you should be aware of the trade off. Protect yourself. Avoid sharing anything you would not share with a stranger. Do not give personal identifiers. Keep your digital habits clean. And do not rely blindly on platforms that treat your information as their main source of profit.

AI is powerful, but your privacy is more important. Stay alert, stay informed and make sure convenience does not cost you your safety.