Soaring rates of unethical AI practices revealed in latest findings
In the rapidly evolving world of technology, artificial intelligence (AI) has become a significant part of our lives, influencing various sectors, including education and employment. However, its integration has not been without controversy, as demonstrated by recent events in Flanders, Belgium.
Universities are grappling with inconsistent academic rules as students increasingly rely on AI for assignments and exams. This issue came to light when 19 students filed appeals, suspecting others may have used AI unfairly after unusually high pass rates. In the Flanders' medical entrance exams, some 2,608 of 5,544 participants passed, but only 1,741 could enter medical school. The success rate jumped to 47 per cent from 18.9 per cent in 2024.
Flemish education minister Zuhal Demir condemned the incidents, stating that students who used AI had "cheated themselves, the university, and society". Investigators caught three candidates using ChatGPT during the exams.
AI is also making its mark in the workplace, with nearly eight in ten organisations now using AI in at least one business function. However, this shift is not without its consequences. A survey revealed that 41% of professionals report that AI-driven change is harming their mental health, with younger workers feeling most anxious about job security.
LinkedIn data shows that entry-level roles in the US have fallen by more than 35% since 2023, and 63% of executives expect AI to replace tasks currently done by junior staff. Companies are adjusting through layoffs rather than pay cuts, potentially squeezing younger workers out. Recent Stanford research confirmed that employment among early-career workers in AI-exposed roles has dropped 13 per cent since generative AI became widespread.
The use of AI in workplaces extends to tasks like screening CVs, ranking applicants, and monitoring performance. While these tools can increase efficiency, they can also replicate biases, leading to ethical controversies. A recent report from McKinsey warns of a sharp increase in ethical controversies related to AI. The OECD and Rand also share concerns about accountability, transparency, and fairness in AI.
AI is also used to manipulate information, influence decisions, and conduct cyberattacks. This was highlighted in a debate that intensified in Belgium following the Flanders' medical entrance exams scandal. In response, institutions like regulators and academic conferences focusing on security, usability, and governance of voting technologies addressed ethical and fairness questions concerning AI applications. European-level discussions and regulatory considerations on AI ethics and fairness were ongoing, including critiques of AI risks in sectors like finance and measures such as the Digital Fairness Act impacting consumer protection.
In 2025, discussions on AI ethics and fairness continued, with events like the ARES 2025 conference held in Ghent addressing these concerns. University experts like Melanie Volkamer were involved in these discussions, aiming to ensure that AI is used responsibly and equitably.
In conclusion, while AI offers numerous opportunities for efficiency and innovation, it also presents challenges that need to be addressed. As AI becomes more prevalent in our lives, it is crucial to ensure that it is used ethically and fairly, protecting both individuals and society as a whole.
