Microsoft finds 71% of UK workers use unapproved AI tools on the job
The study by Microsoft also suggests that AI saves UK employees 12.1 billion hours annually, improving work-life balance and productivity across industries.
A new Microsoft survey has revealed that nearly three in four employees in the UK use AI tools at work without company approval.
A practice, referred to as ‘shadow AI’, that involves workers relying on unapproved systems such as ChatGPT to complete routine tasks. Microsoft warned that unauthorised AI use could expose businesses to data leaks, non-compliance risks, and cyber attacks.
The survey, carried out by Censuswide, questioned over 2,000 employees across different sectors. Seventy-one per cent admitted to using AI tools outside official policies, often because they were already familiar with them in their personal lives.
Many reported using such tools to respond to emails, prepare presentations, and perform financial or administrative tasks, saving almost eight hours of work each week.
Microsoft said only enterprise-grade AI systems can provide the privacy and security organisations require. Darren Hardman, Microsoft’s UK and Ireland chief executive, urged companies to ensure workplace AI tools are designed for professional use rather than consumer convenience.
He emphasised that secure integration can allow firms to benefit from AI’s productivity gains while protecting sensitive data.
The study estimated that AI technology saves 12.1 billion working hours annually across the UK, equivalent to about £208 billion in employee time. Workers reported using the time gained through AI to improve work-life balance, learn new skills, and focus on higher-value projects.
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