Conversations on consent: CXDive explores online data privacy with David McInerney
In a thought-provoking interview with Customer Experience Dive, David McInerney, Commercial Manager at Cassie, addressed the increasingly prevalent issue of online data privacy. With a wealth of experience in digital privacy, McInerney discussed the growing consumer wariness of how companies manage personal information and the urgent need for heightened data protection measures.
While data collection is essential to customer insights and personalization, it’s crucial that companies protect personal data and establish trust with customers.
“The fact that so many customers believe companies are prioritizing profits over their data suggests companies have room for improvement,” McInerney said. “You’ve got to empower people. If people don’t feel they have a choice in things, they’re less likely to engage. If they don’t trust the company, they will cross the road to the competitor.”
This sentiment was echoed by findings from the Privacy beyond Borders report, which revealed that nearly three in five consumers prioritize online data privacy and are willing to forgo online experiences to maintain it. Moreover, over four in five consumers expressed dissatisfaction with the level of control they have over their personal data.
Navigating the balance between consenting to cookies and maintaining privacy is a challenge for many consumers. Despite skepticism, a significant proportion (67%) have consented to cookies on sites they distrust, underscoring the importance of convenience and benefits associated with online services. Notably, nearly half of consumers opt out of marketing emails lacking personalized content, with Americans showing a 25% higher preference for personalization compared to Europeans.
McInerney emphasized the importance for global companies to heed customer data preferences, especially as regulations governing data privacy become increasingly stringent worldwide. With stricter data privacy laws emerging in regions such as the UK, US, Canada, and Europe, businesses must prioritize compliance and adapt their practices accordingly.
As McInerney aptly concluded, “If you have a global footprint, legislation isn’t getting any looser; it’s only getting tighter.” Companies must prioritize data privacy and transparency to build and maintain trust with their customers in an evolving regulatory landscape.
Download our “Privacy Beyond Borders” report now
Our latest research…
- Delves into the preferences and expectations of consumers from the US, UK, EU, and Canada concerning digital experiences
- Scrutinizes the influence of privacy laws on global user interactions
- Evaluates consumers’ awareness of regional privacy regulations
- Explores potential variations in privacy concerns across different regions