29 AI Misuse Statistics That You Can’t Ignore in 2025

Do you want to know the current state of AI misuse and the latest stats? You’re in the right place.

Here is a compilation of the latest and most interesting AI misuse statistics for your delectation. 

Since 2022, AI tools have been popping up everywhere, making it easier to create content, clone voices, generate videos, and even make deepfakes. While AI has a lot of potential to change lives for good, there’s also a darker side.

Many people are worried about how it’s being misused. In fact statistics show that 77% fear their personal data could be stolen, and 74% are concerned companies might use their info without permission.

Others stress about losing jobs or AI being used unethically.

To tackle these issues, it’s important to know what’s happening right now.

I’ve put together the latest and most interesting AI misuse statistics you need to know.

Lets jump to it.

Key AI Misuse Stats

Here are the most interesting statistics you need to know; 

1. 77% of internet users are worried their personal data will be stolen, and 74% fear it will be used by companies without their permission.
2. By 2030, up to 30% of hours worked in the U.S. economy could be automated, with Black and Hispanic employees being especially vulnerable.
3. AI ethical misuse grew by over 30% from 2022 to 2023, with 123 incidents reported in 2023
4. 71% of respondents are worried about AI-generated scams, and 27% of reported misuse cases involve deepfakes to influence public opinion.
5. 52% of Americans are more concerned than excited about AI, up from 38% in 2022.

AI Misuse Statistics

1. 77% of internet users are worried their personal data will be stolen, and 74% fear it will be used by companies without their permission.

A report by LRFoundation found that 77% of internet users worry their personal data will be stolen, and 74% fear companies will use it without their permission.

This isn’t surprising. With so much of our lives online—from social media to banking—people are right to be concerned about who has access to their information.

Think about it: if your data gets into the wrong hands, it could lead to identity theft, scams, or even physical harm. For example, someone could use your personal details to target you based on your disability, beliefs, or other sensitive information.

And it’s not just a theory—80% of businesses worldwide have been affected by cybercrimes.

To ease these fears, AI companies need to be upfront about how they use and protect user data. Without transparency, people will only grow more distrustful.

2. By 2030, up to 30% of hours worked in the U.S. economy could be automated

McKinsey predicts that by 2030, automation could handle up to 30% of the work currently done by humans in the U.S. economy. Unfortunately, this shift will hit some groups harder than others, particularly Black and Hispanic workers.

Why? Many of these jobs are in industries like manufacturing, retail, and transportation—areas where repetitive tasks are common and automation is already making waves.

If you’re in one of these fields, it’s time to think about the future. Will your job still be around in 5 years? If not, what skills can you learn to stay ahead?

While companies could offer training to help workers adapt, many might focus on cutting costs through automation instead. That’s why it’s crucial for policymakers and businesses to step up and create programs that support those most at risk.

3. AI incidents grew by over 30% from 2022 to 2023, with 123 incidents reported in 2023.

According to Statista’s AI Incident Database, reports of AI misuse jumped by over 30% from 2022 to 2023, with 123 incidents logged last year.

Year	Increase in AI Misuse	Total Reported Cases
2022–2023	30% growth	123 cases

What does this mean? As AI tools like deepfakes, voice clones, and chatbots become more advanced, they’re also being used in harmful ways.

For example, students are using AI chatbots to cheat on assignments, while scammers are using voice cloning to trick people into handing over money. 

And let’s not forget deepfakes—fake videos that can make it look like someone said or did something they never did.

These incidents show just how powerful—and dangerous—AI can be when it’s misused. It’s a reminder that we need stronger rules and better tools to prevent these kinds of abuses

4. 71% of respondents are worried about AI-generated scams, and 27% of reported misuse cases involve deepfakes to influence public opinion.

Another Statista survey found that 71% of people are worried about AI-generated scams, and 27% of AI misuse cases involve deepfakes designed to sway public opinion.

Concern	Percentage
Worried about AI-generated scams	71%
Deepfake misuse cases (influence public opinion)	27%

It’s easy to see why. Deepfake technology can create videos that look real but are completely fake. Imagine a video of a celebrity or politician saying something they never actually said—it could spread like wildfire and cause serious damage.

And scams? They’re getting smarter. AI can now clone voices, write convincing emails, and even create fake websites to trick people into giving up their money or personal information.

With cybercrime already affecting 80% of businesses, it’s clear that AI is making these threats even harder to spot. Staying informed and cautious is more important than ever.

5. 52% of Americans are more concerned than excited about AI, up from 38% in 2022.

Pew Research found that 52% of Americans are more worried than excited about AI, up from just 38% in 2022.

It’s not hard to understand why. From job losses to privacy concerns, AI brings a lot of uncertainty.

Let me ask you. 

If your job could be automated, would you feel excited—or nervous?

And it’s not just about work. People are also worried about AI being used to spread misinformation, steal personal data, or even discriminate against certain groups.

While AI has the potential to do a lot of good, these concerns show that we need to address the risks head-on. Otherwise, public trust in AI will keep dropping.

6. 69% of generative AI users and 63% of TikTok users are concerned their data might be misused or stolen.

A recent report from SecurityMagazine found that 69% of generative AI users and 63% of TikTok users worry their data might be misused or stolen.

User Type	% Concerned About Data Misuse
Generative AI Users	69%
TikTok Users	63%

This isn’t surprising. Generative AI tools like ChatGPT and TikTok’s algorithm rely on massive amounts of user data to work. But with so much personal information being collected, it’s natural to wonder: who has access to it, and how is it being used?

For example, if you’ve ever used an AI chatbot or scrolled through TikTok, you’ve likely shared details about your interests, location, or even personal preferences. If that data falls into the wrong hands, it could lead to identity theft, targeted scams, or worse.

And it’s not just a hypothetical risk—cybercrimes are on the rise, affecting millions of people and businesses every year.

To ease these concerns, companies need to be transparent about how they collect, store, and protect user data. Without trust, people will only grow more hesitant to use these technologies.

7. 81% of consumers believe AI companies will use collected data in ways people are uncomfortable with.

A Pew Research Center survey found that 81% of consumers think AI companies will use their data in ways that make people uncomfortable.

Let’s be honest—most of us have clicked ‘agree’ on a terms-and-conditions page without reading it. But this statistic shows that deep down, we’re not really okay with how our data might be used.

Have you ever searched for something online, only to see ads for it everywhere you go? Gogle, YouTube, etc. That’s AI at work, using your data to target you. While it might seem harmless, it’s easy to imagine how this could go too far—like companies selling your data to third parties or using it to manipulate your decisions.

With so much at stake, it’s no wonder people are skeptical. To rebuild trust, AI companies need to be clear about how they use data and give users more control over their information. Otherwise, these concerns will only grow.

8. 68% of consumers globally are concerned about their online privacy.

A report by IAPP found that 68% of consumers worldwide are worried about their online privacy.

Think about it: every time you browse the web, shop online, or use social media, you’re sharing personal information. And with data breaches and cyberattacks becoming more common, it’s no wonder people are on edge.

If your email or credit card details get leaked, it could lead to identity theft or financial loss.

To ease these concerns, companies need to prioritize data protection and be transparent about how they use personal information. After all, trust is hard to earn but easy to lose.”

9. 80% of businesses worldwide are affected by cybercrimes

Cybercrime isn’t just a problem for individuals—it’s hitting businesses hard too.

According to the Economic Times, 80% of businesses worldwide have been affected by cyberattacks.

From small startups to large corporations, no one is immune. Hackers can steal sensitive data, disrupt operations, or even hold systems hostage with ransomware.

A single data breach can cost a company millions in lost revenue and damage to its reputation.

To stay safe, businesses need to invest in strong cybersecurity measures and train employees to spot potential threats. Because in today’s digital world, it’s not a matter of if but when an attack might happen

10. 45–60% of Europeans believe AI will increase the misuse of personal data.

A survey by the European Consumer Organisation found that 45–60% of Europeans think AI will lead to more misuse of personal data.

This isn’t just paranoia—AI systems often rely on vast amounts of data to function, and if that data falls into the wrong hands, it can be used for scams, surveillance, or even discrimination.

For instance, imagine an AI system that uses your online activity to target you with manipulative ads or deny you a loan based on biased algorithms.

To address these fears, governments and companies need to enforce stricter data protection laws and ensure AI is used ethically. Otherwise, public trust in AI will continue to erode

11. Only 43% of people trust AI tools not to discriminate, compared to 38% who trust humans.

According to Ipsos, only 43% of people trust AI tools not to discriminate, while just 38% trust humans to do the same.

This shows that while people are wary of AI bias, they’re not exactly confident in human fairness either.

AI systems used in hiring or lending decisions have been found to favor certain groups over others, often reflecting the biases of their creators.

To build trust, AI developers need to focus on creating fair and transparent systems—and prove that they’re better than humans at making unbiased decisions

12. 7 out of 10 judicial operators recognize the risks of AI chatbots, such as inaccuracies and biases, in legal work.

A UNESCO survey found that 7 out of 10 judges, prosecutors, and lawyers see risks in using AI chatbots for legal work.

Why? Because AI tools like ChatGPT can produce inaccurate or biased results, which could lead to unfair rulings or legal mistakes.

For example, in India and Colombia, judges have used AI to assist with decisions, sparking debates about whether machines can truly understand the complexities of the law.

To prevent these risks, judicial systems need clear guidelines and training on how to use AI responsibly. After all, justice should be blind—not biased.

13. 300 million full-time jobs could be lost to AI automation.

Goldman Sachs predicts that AI automation could replace up to 300 million full-time jobs.

This isn’t just about robots taking over factories—AI is now capable of handling tasks in customer service, accounting, and even creative fields like writing and design.

For instance, If you work in a repetitive or manual job, there’s a real chance AI could do it faster and cheaper.

To stay ahead, workers need to focus on skills that machines can’t easily replicate, like creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. 

Most importantly, governments and businesses must invest in retraining programs to help people adapt to the changing job market.

14. Workers in repetitive tasks have experienced wage declines as high as 70% due to automation.

A National Bureau of Economic Research found that workers in repetitive jobs have seen their wages drop by as much as 70% because of automation.

This is a harsh reality for many people in industries like manufacturing, retail, and transportation, where machines are increasingly taking over.

So if your job involves assembling products or stocking shelves, you might find yourself competing with robots that don’t need breaks or paychecks.

To protect workers, companies and policymakers need to ensure that automation doesn’t come at the cost of fair wages and job security.

15. 27% of reported cases involve using AI to influence public opinion through deepfakes and falsified media.

According to Arxiv research study, 27% of AI misuse cases involve deepfakes and fake media designed to sway public opinion.

This is a huge concern, especially in elections or during crises, where a single fake video or post can spread like wildfire and cause real harm.

Imagine a deepfake of a political leader making inflammatory statements—it could spark protests or even violence.

To combat this, we need better tools to detect deepfakes and stricter laws to hold creators accountable. Because in the age of AI, seeing isn’t always believing

16. 71% of respondents are worried about AI-generated scams.

A Statista survey found that 71% of people are worried about AI-generated scams.

And they have every reason to be. Scammers are now using AI to create fake emails, clone voices, and even write convincing messages to trick people into handing over money or personal information.

What do you think about getting a call from what sounds like a family member in trouble, only to find out it was an AI voice clone?

To stay safe, it’s important to double-check suspicious messages and never share sensitive information without verifying the source. Because with AI, scams are getting smarter—and so should we.

17. 71% of people globally expect AI to be regulated, with most countries supporting the need for regulation. (KPMG)

A KPMG report found that 71% of people worldwide believe AI should be regulated.

This isn’t surprising—with so many risks, from privacy violations to job losses, people want to know that AI is being used responsibly.

Without clear rules, companies could use AI to spy on employees or make decisions that harm certain groups.

To build trust, governments need to create strong regulations that protect people while still allowing innovation to thrive. Because when it comes to AI, balance is key.

18. 92% of judicial operators support mandatory regulations and training on AI use in legal work.

A UNESCO survey revealed that 92% of judges, prosecutors, and lawyers want mandatory rules and training for using AI in legal work.

Why? Because AI tools like ChatGPT can make mistakes or show bias, which could lead to unfair rulings or legal errors.

For example, if a judge relies on AI to interpret a law, but the AI gets it wrong, it could harm someone’s life or livelihood.

To prevent this, legal systems need clear guidelines and training to ensure AI is used responsibly. After all, justice should be fair—not flawed by technology.

19. 63% of teachers reported students getting in trouble for using AI in assignments in 2023-24, up from 48% the previous year.

A survey by EdWeek found that 63% of teachers caught students using AI to complete assignments in 2023-24, up from 48% the year before.

This shows just how quickly AI tools like ChatGPT are changing the classroom. While some students use them to save time, others rely on them to cheat.

A student might ask an AI to write an essay or solve a math problem, leaving teachers to wonder if the work is truly their own.

To address this, schools need clear policies on AI use and tools to detect misuse. But they also need to teach students how to use AI responsibly—because it’s not going away anytime soon.

20. 68% of teachers use AI detection tools, but only 28% know how to respond to suspected misuse.

According to another EdWeek’s Survey, 68% of teachers use AI detection tools to catch students misusing AI, but only 28% know what to do when they find it.

This is a big gap in training and support for educators. After all, it’s one thing to spot AI-generated work—it’s another to handle it fairly and effectively.

In a scenario where a student is accused of using AI, how should a teacher respond? Punish them? Teach them about ethical AI use?

To solve this, schools need clear guidelines and training for teachers. Because without them, the AI problem in education will only get worse.

21. 58% of teachers have not received any training on AI, despite its growing presence in education.

A 2024 survey by Edweek also found that 58% of teachers haven’t been trained on AI, even though it’s becoming a big part of education.

This is a huge problem. If teachers don’t understand AI, how can they teach students to use it responsibly—or even spot when it’s being misused?

A teacher might not realize a student’s essay was written by ChatGPT or know how to explain why that’s a problem.

To fix this, schools need to invest in AI training for educators. Because in the age of AI, teachers can’t afford to be left behind.

22. 79% of companies now have AI usage policies, a 25% increase from the previous year.

The Cavell Q2 2024 AI in Comms report found that 79% of companies now have AI usage policies, up 25% from the year before.

This tells you that businesses are taking AI risks seriously, from data privacy to employee misuse.

A company might set rules on how employees can use AI tools like ChatGPT or DALL-E to avoid leaks of sensitive information.

But having a policy isn’t enough—companies also need to enforce it and train employees on ethical AI use. Because without clear guidelines, even the best intentions can go wrong

23. 91% of organizations do not feel prepared to implement AI responsibly, despite 63% prioritizing it.

A McKinsey study revealed that 91% of companies don’t feel ready to use AI responsibly, even though 63% say it’s a top priority.

This gap shows just how challenging it is to balance innovation with ethics.

Take for example, a company might want to use AI to improve customer service but worry about violating privacy laws or making biased decisions.

To close this gap, businesses need better training, tools, and frameworks for ethical AI use. Because without them, the risks could outweigh the rewards.

24. 93% of companies recognize the risks of generative AI, but only 9% feel prepared to manage them.

A report by Security Magazine found that 93% of companies see the risks of generative AI, but only 9% feel ready to handle them.

This is a huge disconnect. While businesses are excited about AI’s potential, they’re also worried about data leaks, scams, and misuse.

What happens when an employee decides to use an AI tool to write a report, only to accidentally share confidential information?

There you have your problem. 

To address these risks, companies need better training, policies, and tools. Because in the world of AI, being unprepared isn’t an option

25. Top corporate concerns include data privacy and cyber issues (65%), employee misuse (55%), and copyright risks (34%).

A survey by Security Magazine found that companies are most worried about data privacy (65%), employee misuse of AI (55%), and copyright risks (34%).

These concerns show just how complex AI adoption can be. 

If an employee uses AI to create content, who owns it—the employee, the company, or the AI?

To navigate through these challenges, businesses need clear policies and training. Because without them, the risks of AI could outweigh the benefits

26. 68.9% of laziness in humans, 68.6% of privacy and security issues, and 27.7% of loss in decision-making are attributed to AI’s impact.

A study in Nature found that AI is making people lazier (68.9%), more worried about privacy (68.6%), and less confident in their decisions (27.7%).

This isn’t surprising—when AI can do everything from writing emails to making decisions, it’s easy to rely on it too much.

If you always use AI to plan your day or solve problems, you might lose the ability to think for yourself.

To avoid this, we need to use AI as a tool, not a crutch. Because in the end, humans should still be in control.

27. 55% of medical professionals believe AI isn’t ready for medical use

A survey by PRS Global found that 55% of medical professionals think AI isn’t ready for healthcare.

This is a big deal, especially as AI tools are being used to diagnose diseases, recommend treatments, and even perform surgeries.

Let an AI system misdiagnose a patient or suggest the wrong treatment, then it could have life-or-death consequences.

To gain trust, AI developers need to prove their tools are safe, accurate, and ethical. Because when it comes to health, there’s no room for error.

28. 39% of people worldwide believe AI will “mostly help” their country, while 28% think it will “mostly harm.”

A global survey by the LR Foundation found that 39% of people think AI will mostly help their country, while 28% believe it will mostly harm.

This split shows just how divided people are about AI’s impact. On one hand, AI can solve big problems, like improving healthcare or fighting climate change. On the other, it can create new ones, like job losses or privacy violations.

While some people see AI as a tool for progress, others worry it could widen inequality or be used for surveillance.

29. Only 27% of people globally would feel safe in a self-driving car.

The same LR Foundation survey found that only 27% of people would feel safe in a self-driving car.

This isn’t surprising—after all, putting your life in the hands of a machine is a big leap of faith.

For example, if you’re in a self-driving car and it makes a wrong decision, the consequences could be deadly. 

To win people over, self-driving car companies need to prove their technology is safe and reliable. Safety isn’t optional—it’s everything.

Summary of AI Misuse Statistics

Here’s what the data tells us about the state of AI misuse today:

• Most internet users and generative AI users worry about their data being stolen or misused
• Automation is set to replace a significant portion of jobs, especially in repetitive or manual fields, raising concerns about economic inequality and workforce readiness.
• From deepfakes to scams, AI misuse is on the rise, with many people worried about how these technologies could be used to deceive or harm others.
• More than half of Americans are concerned about AI, and the majority of people globally believe it needs stricter regulation to prevent misuse.
• Schools and businesses are struggling to adapt, with teachers catching students misusing AI and companies feeling unprepared to use AI responsibly.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the goal is not to fear AI but to use it responsibly. When done right, it has the potential to solve big problems and improve lives – however we need to address its risks head on so it doesn’t take us unaware. 

If you are looking for more statistics posts, check out our statistics articles: 

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