How to choose a private AI chatbot in Canada
Updated · 5 min read
Privacy is now a feature you can choose. A checklist for picking an AI assistant that respects your data — without compromising on usefulness.
01
The checklist
- 01
Storage
where is my data stored? Look for a clear answer, ideally Canada.
- 02
Processing
where does the model that reads my prompt run?
- 03
Memory
can I see what it remembers? It should be visible and editable.
- 04
Deletion
can I delete conversations and my account?
- 05
Training
is my content used to train models, and can I opt out?
- 06
Sharing
is it opt-in and revocable?
- 07
Models
which models does it use, and can it switch?
- 08
Accuracy
does it show sources and check its answers?
- 09
Family
is there a safe mode for children?
02
Read the settings, not just the homepage
The real answers live in settings and help pages: look for a data-controls or privacy screen, check whether memory is on by default, and find out how long deleted chats are kept. A provider that explains this plainly is usually one that thought about it.
Then test it: ask the assistant what it remembers about you, and delete a conversation to see what happens.
03
Usefulness still matters
A private chatbot you never use protects nothing. Make sure it handles your real work: files, web research, writing, and the tools you already use.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most private way to use AI?
Running open-weight models on infrastructure you control. For most people, a service that stores data and runs models in Canada, with visible memory and real deletion, is the practical choice.
Try asking Digby
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