One in three employees using workplace-generated artificial intelligence tools maintain secrets from their bosses because they are afraid to gain hidden benefits or that they will sacrifice their work.
A new study from Ivanti, a US-based enterprise software company, revealed that 29% of UK workers quietly use AI in their workplaces without disclosing it to their employers.
Adoption is rapidly increasing in the UK despite growing concerns about the cybersecurity risks posed by the use of unregulated AI. Almost half (49%) of UK employees reported using AI in their workplaces in 2025. This is up from just 32% the previous year.
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In a stagnant job market, Among them, vacancies fell to the lowest level in nearly four years in the first quarter of the year, so 28% of employees were worried they could lose their jobs if they found their bosses were using them. artificial intelligence. However, another 38% said they liked the “secret benefits.”
The study also shed light on new psychological consequences. One in four (27%) admitted to experiencing “AI Fuel Conflict Syndrome” and said they didn’t want to question their abilities.
Ivanti’s chief attorney, Brooke Johnson, said workers who employ technology without proper guidelines or approval could lead to cyber attacks, violating company contracts and putting valuable company information at risk. However, the research found that employees want more AI solutions to increase productivity, so organizations should consider building a transparent governance model.
“Employers who fail to approach innovation with empathy and provide employees with autonomy are risking losing valuable staff and negatively affecting employee productivity,” she said.
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The findings highlighted deeper workplace dissatisfaction. 44% of employees reported experiencing “resenteeism” – they are no longer enjoying jobs, but an additional 35% are engaged in “presentism.”
Presentingism can take many forms, such as logging in to log in long before the actual work begins.
The study found a disconnect between leadership expectations and employee priorities. While many business leaders have hoped that returning to the office would make them more productive, employees are increasingly being appreciated whether it is in the form of adaptable time or the ability to set off early on personal issues.
Half of UK workers said they would consider quitting their jobs for a more flexible labor agreement, with 61% feeling that the inflexible schedule indicates a lack of ratings from their employers. This sentiment highlights a significant shift in workplace expectations regarding increased flexibility and autonomy in the workplace.
