EY exec says he can detect AI and lists common signs

EY's global chief innovation officer, referred to as Depa, says he has a 'high sensitivity' for spotting AI use and outlines writing and presentation cues such as neutral tone, repetition, vague hedging, and surface-level insights. A Business Insider survey of 220 respondents found about 40% said they sometimes or always hide AI use at work.

Depa, EY's global chief innovation officer who oversees the firm's AI, data, and innovation strategy, told Business Insider he has a "high sensitivity" for detecting AI-generated work. He said AI is useful to amplify human creativity but warned there are cases where people rely on it so heavily that original thought is missing. His perspective comes as companies encourage AI adoption while some employees downplay their use of the tools. A Business Insider survey of 220 respondents found about 40% said they sometimes or always hide AI use at work. Key signs to watch: - Neutral or overly formal writing that lacks personal voice. - Writing that lacks emotion, humor, or individual style. - Text that is too polished with no shifts in pattern, structure, or flow. - Repetitive language and reliance on corporate buzzwords. - Presentations that offer surface-level insights without specific examples or audience focus. - Vague hedging or avoidance of clear recommendations, and occasional factual mistakes or hallucinations from AI. Summary: The remarks highlight the tension between using AI as a creative aid and overrelying on it, which can make work feel generic and less distinctive. Depa recommends drafting original content first and then using AI to refine it; broader industry practices and policies are undetermined at this time.