Ethical Concerns I’ve Noticed While Using AI

Artificial Intelligence has made my life easier in many ways—faster learning, accurate suggestions, easier communication, and even entertainment that fits my taste perfectly. But there’s another side to this story, a side that I didn’t notice in the beginning. As I started depending more on AI, I also started noticing strange things—ads that felt too personal, apps that seemed to know what I was thinking, and moments where convenience felt a little scary.

When Ads Knew What I Wanted—Before I Even Searched

The first time I got uncomfortable was when I talked to a friend about buying a new backpack. It was a casual conversation, not even a search on my phone. But later that night, when I opened Instagram, I saw backpack ads everywhere. The same colours, same style, even the same price range I was thinking.

For a few seconds, I just stared at my screen and thought—

Was my phone listening?
Or did AI just read my mind?

It was funny at first, then slightly creepy. I realized how closely AI tracks habits—what I talk about, what I scroll, what I like, how long I look at something. A part of me appreciated the convenience. Another part felt like I’d lost a little bit of privacy.

The Feeling of Being Watched by Algorithms

Sometimes when I browse late at night, YouTube shows me motivational videos on stress or anxiety. Spotify plays calm music even without me choosing. The apps notice my timing, my mood pattern, my listening habits.

It’s comforting, yes—but also strange.

It makes me wonder—
Do I control technology, or is technology slowly learning to control me?

I don’t remember giving permission for my behaviour to be analysed this deeply. But I did click “Accept All Cookies” without reading the terms. Maybe that’s where the story began.

Chatbots That Feel Emotionless When You Need Real Help

AI chatbots are fast, but not human. Once, I had an issue with an online exam submission. I panicked and reached out to the website chatbot, typing long messages filled with worry. But it kept giving the same automated replies:

“Please try again later.”

“Restart your browser.”

I felt helpless. In that moment I didn’t want speed—I wanted empathy. I wanted someone who understood stress, deadlines, the fear of marks. AI couldn’t feel what I felt. It made me realize something important: technology can assist, but it cannot emotionally support like a human.

The Fear of Data Storage—Where Does It All Go?

Every time I upload documents, search something personal, or use AI writing tools, a thought crosses my mind:

Where does this data go?
Who can see it?
Can it be misused?

I know companies promise privacy, but reality isn’t always perfect. Data leaks happen. Misuse happens. Sometimes I hesitate before typing personal information, wondering if my digital footprint will follow me forever.

AI That Predicts My Choices—Convenient Yet Controlling

One day, while shopping online, I noticed something interesting. The app didn’t just show products—it showed things that I liked last month, things I clicked but didn’t buy, things similar to what my friends purchased. It was hard to resist. I wasn’t even planning to shop, but AI made it tempting.

I bought something impulsively.

Later I laughed and thought,
Did I really want it, or was it AI convincing me I needed it?

Convenience can quietly turn into influence.
And influence can turn into control—if we’re not careful.

Why These Concerns Matter

AI is powerful. Helpful. Intelligent.
But also curious, observant, and everywhere.

As much as I enjoy AI suggestions and smart tools, I’ve learned to be more mindful:

  • I read permission settings before granting access.

  • I turn off microphone permissions when not needed.

  • I delete my search history sometimes.

  • I think twice before clicking “Agree” too quickly.

I’m not trying to stop using AI—I just want balance.
AI should assist us, not monitor us like shadows.

Living With AI—With Awareness

I’m grateful for AI. It helps me study, work, relax, and grow.
But I also want privacy. I want control over what I share.

As a student who grew up with technology, I believe we must enjoy AI, but also question it. Be curious, but cautious. Use AI, but don’t let it use us.

Because the real power is not in technology alone—
It lies in how responsibly we choose to use it.

                                                                                                                                                       -Monica

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