The Confidence Gap: Americans Think They Are Better at Spotting AI Than They Are

New research from Socialtrait reveals the nation is aware of AI but vulnerability ranges based on regions and generations

SAN FRANCISCO, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A new study from Socialtrait, AI-powered consumer insights platform, reveals that Americans significantly overestimate their ability to detect AI-generated misinformation. This confidence gap is likely to make them more vulnerable to digital manipulation. 

The study combined quantitative survey and AI-simulated focus group discussions which found that 88% of Gen Z and 84% of millennials say they are confident in detecting AI-generated content. But even tech-savvy participants admitted their real success rates are often closer to 40%.

Younger Americans, despite being the most confident and digitally engaged, are also the most frequent sharers of AI-generated content. 87% of millennials and 80% of Gen Z respondents reported sharing AI-created material.

Meanwhile, only 3% of all respondents said they feel fully prepared to navigate AI-driven media. 14% said they don't feel prepared at all, with baby boomers nearly three times more likely than Gen Z to feel unprepared.

Regional AI misinformation risks also vary significantly:

• Florida, Mississippi, Alabama and West Virginia were cited as most at risk due to factors such as digital literacy gaps and heavy reliance on Facebook
• The Northeast showed the highest rates of AI content sharing (82%) and correction behavior (85%)
• The Midwest had the highest level of self-reported unpreparedness (22%)

Transparency emerged as a shared demand. 97% percent of respondents said AI-generated content should require labeling, while just 1% believed disclosure is unnecessary.

The report also found that misinformation spreads quickly in private channels like group chats and DMs, where people often trust the sender more than the content.

Constant vigilance is taking its toll. Many participants reported digital fatigue from trying to keep up with content verification. One Gen Z user reflected on their experience with AI tools, saying that 'the more I play with these models, the less I trust anything online these days, it's exhausting.'

The full report, "Evaluating Online Information Trustworthiness," is available here.

About Socialtrait 
Socialtrait leverages AI-driven communities to deliver precise, actionable consumer insights. By facilitating authentic interactions and deeper understanding of consumer behaviors, Socialtrait helps brands, marketers and policymakers respond effectively to evolving market dynamics.

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SOURCE Socialtrait