Italy shows high AI trust and usage despite knowledge gaps

Recent studies highlight a complex relationship between Italian society and artificial intelligence. According to the Ipsos AI Monitor 2026, 61% of Italians trust companies using AI for personal data protection—surpassing the global average of 47%. However, only 54% of Italians claim to have a good understanding of the technology, significantly lower than the global average of 72%.

In the education sector, a survey by INDIRE and the Festival dell’Innovazione Scolastica reveals that 94% of Italian secondary school students use AI tools, with 84% utilizing them for academic subjects. The study notes that 53% of students have used AI as a ‘digital confidant’ to discuss personal problems. While adoption is high, concerns persist: 44% of students fear AI might reduce independent thinking, and 26% identify a loss of critical thinking as a primary risk. Additionally, 54% of students advocate for AI to remain under human control.