Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to technology that enables computers to perform portions of tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as understanding language, recognizing patterns, solving problems, and making decisions. Generative AI is a specific type of artificial intelligence that can create new content, like text, images, code, and more, based on patterns that it has gleaned from existing data. Think of it as a supercharged assistant that can help brainstorm, summarize, translate, and develop content.
Artificial Intelligence and Large Language Models (LLMs)
With the arrival of Large Language Models that can analyze large amounts of files and data, build apps from just a few prompted sentences, or even work as autonomous agents on someone’s behalf, many people can now access a variety of incredibly powerful AI services with a few keystrokes. Although it can be quick and easy to crunch data or create something new with these AI services, there are important university safeguards and responsibilities that those with access to DePaul data must keep in mind.
When considering the use of any AI services, start with three critical questions:
Am I providing any protected DePaul data to an LLM?
Ease of use doesn’t change the importance of data protection. Most university data should never be uploaded or used with an LLM or AI-based tool. Please review the Data Security Classifications and Controls Standard for data categories and specific examples as well as the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Guidelines document for details on how university policy applies to AI services.
Assuming I have complied with relevant DePaul policies, am I creating an AI-based app, service, or tool that is interacting with any other members of the DePaul community?
The moment a DePaul student, faculty, or staff member considers creating a new technology service that interacts with other people in the DePaul community, this service must undergo a thorough design, security, and data review like any other product that is used in our technological environment.
Am I using an autonomous agent?
The use of autonomous agents is strictly prohibited at DePaul without the express approval of Information Services.
Some guiding principles for the use of AI tools at DePaul
Some AI tools can be employed for personal use with great caution. Others shouldn’t ever be used by DePaul community members.
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Feeding data into LLMs: Don’t provide any sensitive, highly sensitive, or internal restricted DePaul data (including in the aggregate) to any LLM platform. Specific examples of tools not allowed with DePaul data of any non-public classification include, but are not limited to, ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude.
When in doubt, avoid supplying DePaul data to any LLM platform that isn’t Copilot Chat unless you know it is completely public information (i.e.
available on public-facing university bulletins or websites).
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When to use Copilot Chat: Copilot Chat is the approved general purpose LLM platform at DePaul. DePaul has a contractual agreement with Microsoft so that we can be assured that data used in Copilot Chat remains private.
Even so, you should only use data categorized as public and internal non-restricted (i.e.
public websites, class information, employee job titles, etc.)
with Copilot Chat.
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Unit specific AI-based tools: Your school, office, or department may already have access to powerful AI tools that have undergone security review. Check with your area about the data considerations and usage guidelines for these pre-approved tools. We expect more approved AI tools to be available soon.
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App-building or “vibe-coding” tools: Assuming no protected data has been used, it is possible to build apps or tools for professional use if they are strictly used by the individual and not shared. Once an app or tool is shared with others, it requires a thorough review like any other technology application or service employed by the university. AI-based apps or tools created independently should never appear to be created or endorsed by the university, and the use of university tools to generate personal profit is prohibited.
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Autonomous AI agents: A new wave of AI services are promising to automate your tasks. In short, users permit an agent to work autonomously on their behalf. These autonomous agents like OpenClaw or Claude Cowork are explicitly prohibited even if they are only accessing your "own" account or data.
DePaul does not allow the use of autonomous agents of any kind without the express approval of Information Services.
- Applicable university policy: Although many AI services are new and they continue to evolve, they are largely similar to any other software or technology service when it comes to data privacy and security as well as other concepts. Please review the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Guidelines to understand how existing university policies apply to the use of AI.
Although we find ourselves in an era of increased productivity and possibility, the critical importance of data protection, security considerations, and responsible use of technology must be central to any new endeavor that utilizes artificial intelligence.
Questions about using generative AI?
Before using any AI tools, all DePaul students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to consult with your schools, departments, instructors, or managers. Be transparent about your interest in using artificial intelligence and make sure it is approved through the appropriate authority or university entities.
Always reach out before using AI tools
If you have any questions about the AI principles discussed here, contact Information Services at
helpdesk.depaul.edu.