Most people now use unapproved AI tools despite security and privacy risks

A new poll from Microsoft suggests that most UK employees are now using consumer AI tools at work without approval, raising growing concerns about data privacy and cybersecurity. According to the research, 71 percent of UK workers have used or tried unapproved “Shadow AI” tools for work purposes, with more than half (51 percent) doing so on a weekly basis. These tools are often used for writing reports and presentations, drafting communications, and even handling finance-related tasks.

Despite the potential exposure of sensitive company or customer data, only 32 percent of employees expressed concern about the privacy of the information they input into such tools, and just 29 percent worried about the impact on their organisation’s IT security.

Microsoft warns that the widespread use of Shadow AI increases the risk of data leaks, regulatory breaches, and cyber-attacks. Many employees say they turn to consumer tech for their ease and familiarity, with 41 percent using them because they already rely on them personally, and 28 percent saying their employer does not provide an approved alternative.

Darren Hardman, CEO of Microsoft UK & Ireland, said: “UK workers are embracing AI like never before, unlocking new levels of productivity and creativity. But enthusiasm alone isn’t enough. Businesses must ensure the tools in use are built for the workplace, not just the living room.”

The research indicates that AI assistants are now a routine part of working life. More than half (58 percent) of UK employees use them at least weekly, and one in five (19 percent) use them daily. Microsoft estimates that AI use is saving workers an average of 7.75 hours per week — equivalent to 12.1 billion hours, or £207 billion in productivity gains across the UK economy.

Workers report using the time saved to improve their work/life balance (37 percent), develop new skills (31 percent) or focus on more meaningful work (28 percent). Adoption is most common in IT, telecoms, sales, marketing, architecture, engineering, and finance.

The findings also suggest that attitudes toward AI are shifting. More than half (57 percent) of UK employees now describe their feelings about AI as optimistic, excited or confident — up from 34 percent in January 2025. Fewer workers now say they “don’t know where to start” with AI, and more believe it is an essential part of their organisation’s success strategy.

Microsoft’s global Work Trend Index reports similar findings worldwide, with 82 percent of business leaders viewing 2025 as a turning point for AI strategy and nearly half already using AI agents to automate workflows. Employees at organisations furthest ahead in AI adoption were found to be nearly twice as likely to say their business is thriving.