Kaspersky survey finds 47% of Gen Z use AI daily or almost daily, while 27% say they use it as a friend

Gen Z is using artificial intelligence more frequently than other generations, with many incorporating AI into studying, information searches, work and even personal conversations, according to a new Kaspersky survey.

The study, conducted by Kaspersky’s internal market research center among 7,200 respondents across 18 countries, found that 47% of Gen Z participants use AI every day or almost every day — the highest proportion among the demographic groups surveyed.

Information searches were the most common use, with 56% of Gen Z respondents saying they use AI for this purpose. Another 49% use it for studying, 47% for generating ideas and 39% for work.

The survey also points to a growing personal relationship between young users and AI. More than a quarter of Gen Z respondents, or 27%, said they use AI as a friend, a higher share than among other generations.

In addition, 28% said they use AI to discuss personal matters they would rather not share with other people. While conversational AI may appear private and emotionally supportive, Kaspersky cautioned that AI systems are not human friends and can provide inaccurate or inappropriate responses.

The findings also highlighted concerns over cybersecurity habits. Only 42% of Gen Z respondents said they consistently take precautions when using AI services, such as verifying information through reliable sources and avoiding the disclosure of sensitive data.

Meanwhile, 52% said they take such precautions only occasionally, while 6% do not take them at all.

Kaspersky warned that increased reliance on AI could expose users to risks if they share confidential information or accept AI-generated responses without verification. The company advised users to avoid entering passwords, payment details, identity documents, private correspondence and other sensitive information into AI services.

The company also urged users to verify AI-generated information, particularly when dealing with educational, financial, legal or medical matters.

“Gen Z understands emerging AI trends better than other generations and is already finding new ways to integrate the technology into studying, communication and everyday life,” said Vladislav Tushkanov, Group Manager at Kaspersky AI Technology Research Center.

He said the growing use of AI as a friend demonstrates how quickly the relationship between users and technology is changing, while stressing the importance of protecting personal data, checking information and thinking critically about AI-generated responses.

The 2026 survey included respondents from Brazil, China, Colombia, Egypt, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, South Africa, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam.