- Senior managers are twice as likely as other employees to use unapproved shadow AI tools
- Executives often overlook security protocols to prioritize personal productivity over corporate compliance.
- Double standards in the use of AI create significant governance and security risks
Amid continued top-down efforts to tighten security as companies deploy AI more broadly, new research from TrustedTech reveals that it’s the boardroom that could be to blame for some of the most common security mistakes.
The report found that three in five (62%) senior leaders admitted to using AI in the shadows, exactly double the number of non-decision makers (31%).
As C-suite executives impose AI security measures on their workers, including the list of approved AI tools, TrustedTech’s research suggests their behavior may not be accidental, as the report indicates they are fully aware of governance risks and are deliberately circumventing controls in favor of productivity over compliance.
Senior managers are using AI with double standards
More than a quarter (28%) of senior decision-makers even admitted that they would continue using AI tools even if their employer banned them or faced disciplinary action. Once again, a figure higher than that of all employees (22%).
Although the use of shadow AI by senior levels is high, half (51%) say they are concerned that employees will do the same. TrustedTech argues that this imposes double standards and inconsistencies in governance that ultimately make workers less likely to follow the rules.
“When that behavior is modeled at the top of an organization, it becomes much more difficult to enforce governance in other parts of the business,” wrote chief visionary officer Julian Hamood.
Workers want AI, but the current setup is holding them back
However, governance and security may not be the main obstacles to compliance: workers are constantly dissatisfied with the tools they are given. The report blames productivity pressure and access limitations. One in four (24%) say employer-approved AI tools are too limited and 21% agree that unofficial tools are more efficient.
The report also reveals slow adoption among workers who don’t make decisions due to organizational and cultural concerns: 28% worry about employers monitoring their use of tools, 23% reduce their use due to perception concerns, and 21% admit to negatively judging their colleagues for relying heavily on AI.
Additionally, one in five said they were concerned that the use of AI could negatively impact their career progression opportunities.
In contrast, the group that uses shadow AI the most (senior leaders) has a disproportionately high risk surface. This is due to their access to sensitive data in financial systems, human resources and payroll information, customer data, legal and regulatory material and more.
With seven in 10 believing AI has a positive impact on team performance, 54% saving at least three hours per week, and 27% saving five or more hours per week, it’s clear that workers have an appetite for AI.
TrustedTech criticized companies for not being clear enough, with many still lacking formal AI policies, lists of approved tools, and sufficient training initiatives.
“The findings highlight the urgent need for organizations to reconsider how they approach AI governance, focusing on leadership accountability, clearer usage policies, and better education around safe and responsible AI adoption,” Hamood added.
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