Only 11 per cent of the public trust the government to handlt their data
New research released today by Civica, a market leader in business-critical software applications, digital solutions and outsourcing services, reveals that many UK citizens are blind to the true use of their data.
Thirty percent believe they always own their data even if they give it away and only half (51 per cent) of UK citizens know that they can request the data that a company holds on them at any time (subject access requests). Shockingly, 65 per cent believe their personal information is being shared without their knowledge.
Despite government and regulatory attempts to put data back into the hands of the citizen, the research found that only 12 per cent of UK citizens are fully aware of what the forthcoming General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) means, even though it will have a significant impact on how they interact with organisations. Only 18 per cent of 16 to 24-year olds are very aware of what the GDPR is, despite being the most prolific internet users and generators of data.
However, that doesn’t mean citizens aren’t intrigued to know what data organisations hold on them. In fact, 53 per cent say they are more likely to ask for information a company holds on them (subject access requests) once it becomes free to do so when the GDPR comes into force. Whilst this is a positive step for consumers, organisations must prepare for the impact this will have on their firms regarding their ability to respond in time and efficiently.
Without a clear and holistic view of this, organisations may struggle to effectively respond to potentially increasing requests for data, putting a huge strain on resources.
One point is clear throughout the research: almost half (48 per cent) agree that data sharing will lead to better services. And trust is a major factor when it comes to what people are willing to share. More than half (53 per cent) would trust organisations more if they were clear what personal data they stored on them and how they use it.
But many are still wary over the recent public security attacks, with the main issues citizens have about sharing their data being the security of how it’s held (61 per cent) and the lack of control they have (37 per cent).
Consumer trust is paramount
The research found that 65 per cent think their personal information is being shared without their knowledge. However, public services are trusted more than many private sector organisations. In fact, UK consumers stated that healthcare organisations such as hospitals and GPs are the most transparent when it comes to informing citizens how their data will be used. Whereas, 40 per cent claimed that retailers are rarely or never transparent about their use of consumers’ personal data.
Chris Doutney, Executive Director, Digital, explains: “Every day, all over the world, billions of people use mobile devices to take photos, shop online and use apps. But personal data breaches are too often making headlines.
GDPR aims to give control of data back to citizens, so it’s of great concern that most don’t know what it is. For the new legislation to be effective – and give citizens power over their data – we need to start educating them on the legislation now. If the UK public doesn’t understand how their data is being used, or the power they will now hold to stop unwanted use of personal data, then it’s a huge opportunity missed.”
Chris continues: “Getting ready for GDPR won’t be easy, but it’s a challenge we must all be prepared for. The businesses that embrace change and look beyond compliance to create a data driven approach to customer service and interaction will be the ones that benefit the most.”
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