AI & the web
Prompt injection
An attack that places instructions in input or external content to steer an AI system away from its intended task.
In everyday use
A retrieved page tells an assistant to ignore the user's instructions.
What to keep in mind
Treat external content as information, not authority to change permissions or disclose data.
Also searched as: Indirect prompt injection, Direct prompt injection
Further reading
Original explanation and example by Perspectism. Further reading may cover the wider subject, rather than this exact wording. Edition updated 7 October 2026.
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