Perplexity (Free / Pro)
AI tool summary for DPOs and governors. Perplexity AI · Facts last checked 2026-10-23 · Printed 24 October 2026
AI Prefect
Staff: Red · Not recommended for school data
- Trains on what you type by default, with no school-level opt-out stated
- Supplier acts as a data controller, not a processor for the school
Pupils: Red · Not recommended for school data
- Trains on what you type by default, with no school-level opt-out stated
- Supplier acts as a data controller, not a processor for the school
| Supplier | Perplexity AI |
|---|---|
| Category | search / chatbot |
| Pupil-facing | not stated |
| Processor or controller | controller (consumer service) |
| Where data is stored | not stated |
| Trains AI models on inputs | YES by default (opt-out: AI Data Retention setting) |
| How long inputs are kept | not stated |
| Data processing agreement (DPA) | not stated |
| Signs individual DPAs with schools | not stated |
| UK GDPR representative / DPO | not stated |
| Minimum age | 13+; under-16s need parental consent |
| Key safety note | not stated |
| Main use | General AI assistant / chatbot |
Better-rated alternatives for the same use: ChatGPT Edu (Green), Gemini app (Workspace for Education) (Green), Microsoft 365 Copilot (Green)
Before using it: check the minimum age fits your pupils, confirm a data processing agreement is in place, switch off AI training where possible, and record the decision in your DPIA.
Sources: https://www.perplexity.ai/help-center/en/articles/11564572-data-collection-at-perplexity · https://www.perplexity.ai/hub/legal/terms-of-service · https://www.perplexity.ai/hub/legal/privacy-policy
Full entry: aiprefect.co.uk/tools/perplexity-2. Rating is a rules-based summary of the supplier’s published terms. “Not stated” means we could not find it in their documents. This is not legal advice and does not replace your DPIA.