ISLAMABAD: A new report by Visa Inc. reveals that 82% of consumers in Pakistan rely on artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist with shopping, highlighting the growing role of technology in digital commerce.
According to Visa’s annual “Stay Secure 2026” study, 93% of respondents said AI has made online shopping faster and more convenient. Consumers are increasingly using AI for price comparisons, product reviews, and gift suggestions.
However, trust remains a concern when it comes to completing purchases. The report notes that only 42% of users are comfortable finalizing transactions through AI agents.
The study also highlights a rise in online fraud. Around 55% of consumers reported experiencing financial fraud over the past year, with 44% of incidents occurring on social media platforms.
Despite these risks, optimism about AI remains strong. About 87% of respondents believe AI will play a key role in preventing fraud in the future, while 65% said it has already made fraud detection easier
The report also raised concerns about child safety online. Some 77% of participants said children struggle to identify scams, and 33% reported cases where minors were affected by fraud during online gaming or shopping.
The research, conducted by Wakefield Research between January and February 2026, surveyed 5,800 individuals across 17 countries, including Pakistan.
