A new IBM survey shows that the majority of Canadian office workers are using artificial intelligence tools on the job without formal approval from their employers, raising concerns about security risks, data leaks, and compliance failures.
The report found that 79 per cent of full-time office workers use AI at work, but only a quarter rely solely on enterprise-approved tools. One-third said they use a mix of sanctioned and personal apps, while 21 per cent admitted to using only personal AI tools. IBM says this “shadow AI” trend costs businesses an average of $308,000 per data breach.
“AI adoption in the workplace is no longer theoretical, it’s happening, and it’s being led by employees,” said Deb Pimentel, president of IBM Canada. The company urged business leaders to adopt secure, enterprise-grade solutions to better control how employees access AI and to align its use with organizational goals.
Despite the risks, employees overwhelmingly see AI as a benefit. According to the survey, 97 per cent said AI makes them more productive, 86 per cent felt confident using the technology, and nearly 80 per cent said it gives them more time to focus on creative or strategic tasks. Over half reported saving one to three hours a week thanks to AI, while one in four said they save up to six hours.
But the gap between employee adoption and employer readiness is stark. Only 29 per cent of workers believe their organizations are using AI to its full potential, and almost half said they would consider leaving their jobs for an employer that embraces AI more effectively.
IBM Canada’s Daina Proctor said companies must close the gap by investing in secure AI systems. “Organizations need to provide secured enterprise-grade AI tools, or else employees will find their own. Water will flow downhill.”