Creation or contamination: Unravelling the dangers of customer generative AI misuse

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2024-07-01

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en

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Introduction: As artificial intelligence technologies, especially generative AI, rapidly transform industries worldwide, concerns about ethical use and differential impacts have emerged. This study aims to uncover the influence of literacy on driving misuse through empirical research, addressing ethical considerations and proposing strategies for responsible AI deployment. By understanding these dynamics, the research seeks to inform policies and practices that promote ethical AI development and usage. Method: In this phenomenological research, data on literacy, use, misuse and the future of AI, is collected by the means of semi-structured interviews with different demographic participants. The interviews are recorded, transcribed and analysed by means of open axial and selective coding. Results: Eight participants were included in this study, revealing varied levels of AI literacy and professional backgrounds. Participants, predominantly male, aged 22 to 46, showed a tendency to overestimate their AI knowledge compared to external assessments. They discussed ethical concerns influencing AI usage, such as privacy and environmental impact. Ethical dilemmas in AI misuse were acknowledged, with some participants admitting to unethically behave for personal gain or experimentation. For the future, participants expressed optimism about AI but stressed the need for enhanced education and regulation to mitigate misuse and promote responsible AI usage across demographics. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate the ethical challenges posed by the rise of AI technology. Participants engaged in various forms of unethical AI use, driven by motives ranging from personal gain to understanding potential harm for future mitigation. The tension between ethical standards and practical realities became evident, with participants often encountering blurry lines when faced with critical personal or professional interests. The level of AI literacy influences the misuse of generative AI technology across various digital applications. Key factors contributing to this misuse include a lack of understanding, personal gain, and situational pressures such as the need to save a company.

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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen