The adoption of ChatGPT, a chatbot program powered by generative AI, is on the rise within workplaces across the United States, according to a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll. Despite concerns over security risks and intellectual property, the use of ChatGPT in US workplaces is trending. Companies like Microsoft and Google have restricted its usage due to these concerns.
Discussions surrounding the benefits and drawbacks of ChatGPT have gained momentum as organizations worldwide consider how to leverage the technology. ChatGPT’s ability to engage in conversations and respond to prompts using AI-driven capabilities has intrigued various sectors. However, security firms and companies have raised concerns about potential leaks of intellectual property and strategic information.
Real-world examples have shown individuals embracing ChatGPT to streamline daily tasks such as composing emails, summarizing documents, and conducting preliminary research. However, only 22% of respondents in the poll stated that their employers explicitly sanctioned the use of external tools like ChatGPT.
The Reuters/Ipsos poll, conducted between July 11 and 17, revealed that approximately 28% of respondents regularly use ChatGPT for work-related tasks. However, only a fraction of this group (22%) confirmed that their companies officially endorsed the use of external AI tools. The poll also showed diverse attitudes toward AI tools within workplaces, with 10% reporting explicit prohibitions and 25% unsure of their organization’s stance.
Since its launch in November, ChatGPT has become one of the most popular applications. However, it has faced regulatory challenges, particularly in Europe, where concerns have been raised about data collection practices and privacy infringements.
One of the core concerns revolves around data usage and privacy. Companies utilizing ChatGPT’s generated chats have human reviewers who might access this data. AI systems have been found to reproduce data absorbed during training, potentially posing risks to proprietary information. Users also have limited understanding of how generative AI services leverage their data.
Corporate perceptions and strategies vary, with some companies lacking contractual agreements with AI services. OpenAI, the developer behind ChatGPT, has assured corporate partners that their data will not be used to further train the chatbot without explicit permission.
While companies like Google and Alphabet gathering text, location, and usage information, they allow users to manage their data and remove content fed into the AI. Companies like Samsung Electronics have imposed bans on staff using ChatGPT and similar AI tools after incidents of sensitive code being uploaded.
As ChatGPT’s presence expands in US workplaces, the complexities of integrating AI into daily operations become apparent. Balancing data security and intellectual property concerns with the benefits of AI-driven technology remains a challenge as companies navigate the dynamic landscape of AI adoption.