Over a third (38%) of UK adults feel less confident going online since the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini as uncertainty around digital basics and misinformation are on the rise.

The figure is based on research from Good Things Foundation, which found that nearly 8 million adults in the UK are already struggling with digital basics.

AI risks leaving these individuals even further behind, with many Brits intentionally avoiding essential online services such as online banking (16%), shopping (15%) and using NHS services (14%) over the past twelve months.

Over half (55%) of Brits have used AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini or CoPilot, yet uncertainty is still widespread, with 69% saying it makes it harder to know what is real.

Half (50%) aren’t confident recognising whether news is AI-written (rising to 67% among over 65s), 48% say the same for social posts, and 45% for videos and images. Across common tasks from translation to image creation, a third (34%) on average rate AI as not trustworthy.

Lack of confidence online is heightened for those with limited or no broadband access – 49% of whom say the rise of AI has made them less confident to go online, higher than the UK average of 37%.

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To help people build practical skills and trust, Good Things Foundation is launching a free AI Gateway learning platform, focusing on boosting AI literacy, designed with digitally excluded audiences in mind. The platform launches as three in five (61%) of adults say support or training would help them use the internet and new technologies like AI.

“Digital confidence is an essential component for full participation in society, enabling people to manage finances, find employment, and stay safe online,” Helen Milner, OBE, chief exective of Good Things Foundation, said.

“With rapid digital transformation and emerging tech, people are at risk of being left behind. We can’t afford to allow this to happen. For anyone lacking confidence in their digital skills, I urge them to visit our AI Gateway learning platform.”