AI Adoption Accelerates in APAC, But Consumers Struggle with Trust, Security, and Job Displacement Concerns

A new study by (NASDAQ: FFIV), which explored the perceptions and attitudes APAC consumers have about AI. Consumers across APAC are facing an AI paradox: where the technology is embraced for productivity and efficiency, but fears around privacy risks, fraud, and employment impact hindering widespread trust.

Titled The 2025 AI Paradox: Understanding Consumer Perceptions in APAC, the research identified five key paradoxes influencing consumer trust in AI across nine APAC countries:

• Empowerment vs. Control: Consumers are excited about AI’s potential but demand transparency and governance to feel in control of their data and experiences.

• Tech Savviness vs. Skepticism: Despite high levels of tech adoption, consumers remain skeptical about AI’s reliability and ethical implications.

• Efficiency vs. Job Security: While AI promises increased efficiency, anxieties about job displacement are prevalent.

• Innovation vs. Environmental Concerns: Consumers recognize AI’s innovative potential but are concerned about its environmental impact.

• Progress vs. Responsibility: Consumers expect organizations to adopt AI responsibly, prioritizing fairness, security, and accountability.

“This research highlights a clear gap in trust when it comes to in APAC. Consumers recognize AI’s benefits but remain cautious about , ethical use, and its long-term impact on jobs and society. Organizations must proactively address these concerns by embedding transparency, governance, and security into every AI-driven experience. Without trust,will stall, limiting its potential to drive innovation and efficiency,” said Mohan Veloo, CTO for APCJ at F5.

The study also revealed a disconnect between personal and professional AI experiences. While many individuals experience productivity gains from AI in their personal lives, these benefits are not being fully realized in the workplace. This suggests a need for organizations to focus on better integrating AI into workflows and providing employees with the training and resources they need to use AI effectively in their jobs.

“The National Strategy for AI envisions India as a global AI leader with initiatives like the IndiaAI Mission and Aatmanirbhar Bharat driving self-reliance, ethical innovation, and inclusive growth,” said Pratik Shah, Managing Director for India & SAARC at F5. “With the widespread adoption of AI solutions across industries, our study highlights concern around bias, transparency, and that continue to erode consumer trust. Moreover, businesses often struggle aligning AI with real customer needs, constrained by fragmented data and overdependence on automation. Bridging these gaps through responsible leadership, integrated digital infrastructure, and human-centered design will be critical for unlocking AI’s full potential, not just as a driver of efficiency, but as a force for trusted, long-term transformation.”