The study analyses the views of German consumers on generative AI, its use and risk perception in various sectors. Another focus is on the perception and distribution of information on the internet. To this end, the study concentrates on the recognition of misinformation and AI-generated content and the effect of an AI label.
Currently, almost half of German consumers do not use generative AI, and knowledge of the technology is generally low. Users often rate their knowledge higher and have a more positive attitude towards generative AI than non-users. Sectors with a direct consumer focus are viewed more critically than those with a societal focus. Measures to reduce thought processes, as proposed by the AI Act, have had limited success so far.
The findings indicate that the correctness of the information can impact the evaluation of the accuracy of the posts and the probability of their dissemination. The form of presentation also has a noticeable influence on the perceived accuracy of a post. The differences with regard to the label are only very slight.
