As generative AI usage becomes more widespread, two-thirds of respondents expressed concern about AI systems collecting their data

OpenText™ has released the results of Webroot's 2024 GenAI Consumer Trends and Privacy Report, revealing that 39% of U.S. consumers use generative AI at least weekly. Despite this growing reliance on AI, significant privacy concerns persist, particularly among parents. The survey indicates that while many consumers are taking steps to protect their personal information, only 27% utilize privacy tools and settings to safeguard workplace information when using generative AI.

• The Rise of Generative AI:

  • The survey, conducted among over 1,000 U.S. consumers, indicates a marked increase in the use of generative AI, with 39% using it at least weekly and nearly 46% using it regularly. The report highlights that 62% of respondents favor text generation tools like ChatGPT as their most frequently used AI tool.

• Demographics of AI Usage:

  • Generative AI usage varies across age groups. Only 22% of respondents aged 20-30 and 25% of those aged 31-40 reported never having used generative AI, compared to 41% of respondents aged 41-50. Looking ahead, 56% expect to increase their AI usage in the next year.

• Privacy Concerns Among Consumers:

  • Privacy issues remain a significant concern, with 90% of respondents expressing worry or neutrality regarding AI systems collecting their data. Two-thirds of those surveyed are particularly concerned about privacy implications.

• Underutilization of Privacy Tools:

  • While 43% of respondents have taken steps to use privacy tools and settings for personal data protection when using generative AI, only 27% of employed respondents apply these measures to protect workplace information. The most popular privacy tools used at work include password managers (64%), antivirus software (63%), VPNs (62%), ad blockers (61%), and identity theft protection (57%).

• Parental Concerns Over Children’s AI Use:

  • Parents are notably concerned about their children's use of generative AI tools, with 77% expressing worry over privacy issues. Of those, 49% are very concerned, and 52% actively monitor their children's activities online.

• Generative AI vs. Video Games:

  • The report reveals that generative AI is becoming a significant concern for parents, surpassing concerns about video game use. 85% of parents expressed equal or greater concern about generative AI collecting and using their children's personal data compared to video games.

As generative AI becomes increasingly integrated into daily life, the findings of the 2024 GenAI Consumer Trends and Privacy Report highlight the need for consumers to be informed about privacy implications. OpenText emphasizes the importance of straightforward privacy and security solutions to ensure that consumers can safely utilize generative AI technologies.