Securely Using Microsoft Copilot

Microsoft ensures data protection is a top priority; however, the tool is only approved for use with public and confidential data as defined in the university's data classification system.

Important: Under no circumstances should you input highly confidential data into the program.  

Before you type anything into Copilot Chat, make sure that you see the green shield with the word “Protected” in the top left corner. Having that status enabled ensures that any information inserted into the application during use will be protected and then purged when your session ends.

Microsoft will not use your data or university data to train their artificial bot, but you should still exercise caution. Make sure you understand how your data is classified under the university's data classification system and only use this application when appropriate. 

There are guidelines you should follow to ensure that all data and your privacy are protected appropriately and immediately. By following the below steps, the system will automatically purge the data used:

• Click “new chat” once Copilot Chat has answered your question to purge the conversation.
• Close the browser after you are done using Copilot Chat.
• If uploading a PDF or link to a webpage, follow the above steps to purge that information from Copilot Chat after you have your answer.
• If you forget to close the browser or click “new chat” and walk away from your computer, make sure you have clicked on the lock screen setting. This will ensure no one gains access to the data stored on the computer or in the browser.

The use of Copilot Chat will be beneficial for all users, but please remember the basic tenets of security and securing your data:

• Report security violations and weaknesses to IT.security@cuanschutz.edu or IT.security@ucdenver.edu.
• Utilize information and information technology resources for authorized purposes only.
• Protect the privacy of others.
• Protect passwords, identification cards and other access to devices.