For years, the conversation around artificial intelligence has revolved around a single, urgent question: can we trust it? In 2026, that question is starting to feel incomplete. A quieter, more complex issue is emerging beneath the surface, one that is far less discussed, and far less regulated. What happens when people trust AI too much?

The EU AI Act correctly insists on human oversight. Its intention is clear and necessary: ensure that humans can analyse, intervene, and improve AI-driven decisions. However, this creates a paradox. Placing a human 'in the loop' does not automatically guarantee real judgment, real veto power, and real cognitive engagement. In fact, poorly designed oversight requirements can make organisations more fragile, because they rely on a form of human presence that is nominal rathe