A new survey reveals that 59% of employees in the United States use AI tools at work without their employer’s approval, with three-quarters of them sharing potentially sensitive information with these platforms. Cybernews reports on the findings, which highlight a growing shadow AI problem in corporate environments.
The study shows that executives and senior managers are the most likely to use unauthorized AI tools, with 93% admitting to this practice. Despite 89% of employees understanding the risks associated with AI tools, many continue to share employee data, customer information, and internal documents with unapproved platforms. Only a third of employees report that company-approved AI tools meet their needs, potentially explaining why many seek alternatives.
Mantas Sabeckis, Security Researcher at Cybernews, explains that tools like ChatGPT create a false sense of security. “Since tools like ChatGPT feel like you’re chatting with a friend, people forget that this data is actually shared with the company behind the chatbot,” he states.
The research reveals a significant communication gap between employers and employees. Nearly a quarter of companies lack any official policy on AI use at work. Among those using unapproved tools, 57% claim their direct managers support this practice, while 16% say their managers don’t care.
