Accessing Copilot with Data Protection

The service is accessible from a web browser at https://copilot.microsoft.com/ and from the Copilot in Windows app on Windows 11, when signed in to the browser or Windows with University of Illinois credentials (@illinois.edu or @uillinois.edu). While signed in with other credentials, a Microsoft personal account, or not signed in, only the consumer AI features will be available for use.

The Copilot web app is available for anyone with a normal A5 license.

How to use Copilot

The Copilot AI assistant provides University of Illinois faculty and staff access to intelligent conversation + image generation technology, all with safeguards for data privacy. You can use Copilot to boost productivity, spark creativity, and better serve students, all while upholding the highest data protection standards.

Office365 Online Apps 

Copilot should appear right away in the web apps, but you may need to adjust your cookie settings to actually use it. If you don’t you’ll get a license error when you try to ask questions. Instructions on how to make those changes are under the 3^rd header of this site 

Microsoft 365 Copilot with Data Protection only appears in the Office 365 web apps if the user is a member of the Microsoft 365 Copilot Early Adopters program.

How to tell if you are accessing Copilot with Data Protection

When properly signed in with correct credentials and licensing:

• a Protected White and Grey Shield icon appears near the upper right by the New Chat button.
• a notice that "Enterprise Data Protection applies to this chat. Use discretion when sharing personal and organizational data" appears when hovering your mouse over this icon

These logos and messages will not be present on the consumer version of the Copilot service.

Office365 Desktop apps

For Excel, Word, & Powerpoint you’ll need to “Update License” and then close out and restart any of the office apps you’re using.  

• Update License can be found under your name at the upper right -> Office User Info -> "Update License".  

• If “Update License” doesn’t appear for you or you receive a “Couldn’t update license” error please message copilot365support@illinois.edu and we’ll get you further assistance. 

Firefox browser inconsistencies

When using the web application of the Copilot with Data Protection AI Chat, you may encounter inconsistencies while using the Firefox browser.  It is recommended that you use a different browser until the issue is resolved. 

Service Terms of use

The Copilot with Data Protection service offers additional safeguards surrounding the logging and use of the data submitted. Microsoft's references for their privacy and usage terms are available here:

• Terms of Use: https://aka.ms/Copilot/TermsofUse
• Privacy Policy: https://aka.ms/Copilot/Privacy

Updates

The AI services from Microsoft are rapidly evolving, and this article will be updated as more information becomes available.