Experts advise caution with personal AI agents despite growing popularity

Cybersecurity expert Hed Kovetz expressed interest in using personal AI agents to manage administrative tasks but refrains from granting them access to sensitive information such as email, banking, and health records, CBS News reported.

Kovetz highlighted concerns that these AI agents, including Meta's Muse and OpenAI's Dots, could be exploited or act beyond user instructions, noting that leading tech firms may have launched these products without adequate security safeguards.

Other AI security specialists suggest that consumers can use personal AI tools if they implement protective measures and remain aware of privacy risks, though Kovetz cautions against full access due to current security and privacy shortcomings.

Despite these concerns, personal AI agents are rapidly gaining popularity, with Meta's Muse becoming the top downloaded app on Apple's App Store shortly after its release, CBS News noted.

Consumer protection expert Lindsay Owens pointed out that AI shopping agents like Walmart's Sparky can increase consumer spending, raising questions about whether such agents prioritize user interests or retailer goals.

Experts urge users to be prudent about the data they share with AI agents and to understand the potential for unauthorized actions by these tools.