How to Use AI at Work Without Falling for Hallucinations

Using AI at work can boost productivity — but it also carries risks like “hallucinations,” where tools generate plausible but incorrect information. The key to safe usage? Think of AI as an assistant, not a decision-maker.

First, always verify important answers yourself — especially when the stakes are high, like in finance or legal work. Because AI models predict likely responses rather than know facts, they sometimes make things up. 

Next, craft clear prompts with context or precise instructions. This reduces the chance the tool goes off track. Supporting the AI with trusted data can help too. 

Also, input no confidential or sensitive details into public AI tools. That’s because these tools may inadvertently expose or reuse information. 

Finally, remember the human in the loop: keep oversight, editing and approvals from real people in your workflow. AI can cover drafts and ideas — humans must handle final reviews. 

In short: AI has strong value. But used smartly, with care and checks, is the only path to gaining benefits while avoiding costly mistakes.