Microsoft Copilot and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Guidance and Usage

Tuesday, July 30, 2024
by Jamie Shigeishi

Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to any system which operates or performs tasks that are normally performed by human intelligence. Systems like Microsoft Copilot are developed using modern AI technologies, and then made useful to the public by being trained on massive amounts of data. 

It is essential that if you are using an AI system, you do so responsibly. IST urges proceeding with caution and due diligence when using University data with AI systems. All existing University policies (see  Guidance on Artificial Intelligence Use) still apply to the usage of AI, in the same way they do to all information systems.  

Guidelines for use: 

  • Currently, Microsoft Copilot (formerly Bing Chat Enterprise), is available through your UWaterloo account.  

  • Accessing this service with your account will automatically provide you with personal and company data protection.  

  • Non-UWaterloo accounts should never be used in conjunction with University data.  

  • Ensure confidential/restricted data is not entered into AI tools.  

  • The University does not provide licenses for other AI tools such as GitHub Copilot or ChatGPT.  

To learn more visit IST’s Guidance on Artificial Intelligence Use