Identifying generative AI use among genuine responders in online survey research

Abstract

Everyday use of AI has introduced more AI-generated content into surveys, diluting insights and distorting findings. While the concern about agentic “bots” responding to surveys is now widely recognized by most researchers, this comment discusses the simultaneous rise in use of AI by genuine human survey respondents and provides guidance on identification and implementation of the necessary safeguards that ensure surveys reflect public opinion rather than recycled or programmed content. Surveys are compromised not only by bots, but also by the use of AI by genuine human survey respondents. How can researchers ensure that surveys reflect public opinion rather than recycled or programmed content?