Organizations consider bans on generative AI applications amid security concerns and potential benefits

According to recent research from BlackBerry Limited, 75% of enterprises worldwide are currently using or are debating banning ChatGPT and other generative AI tools in the workplace.

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A recent BlackBerry Limited study reveals that 75% of global organizations are either using or considering banning workplace use of generative AI tools like ChatGPT. Concerns include data security, privacy, and reputation. Of these, 61% see these measures as long-term. 83% worry about cybersecurity risks from unprotected apps.

The majority, despite their inclination for outright bans, recognized the potential for generative AI applications in the workplace to increase creativity (51%), efficiency (55%), and innovation (52%). Most respondents (81%) supported using generative AI technology for cybersecurity defense, demonstrating that IT decision-makers don’t want to be caught off guard and give hackers the upper hand.

Shishir Singh, Chief Technology Officer for Cybersecurity at BlackBerry, counsels companies to use generative AI applications in the workplace with caution and flexibility, putting value before hype and avoiding risky consumer solutions. He stresses the need of having the proper tools for controlling and overseeing workplace apps.

According to a survey, 80% of IT decision makers believe companies can restrict employee app use, but 74% see such restrictions as overly controlling. Enterprise-grade solutions like BlackBerry UEM are critical because Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) provides critical user security and privacy controls.