Britain's businesses are increasingly calling for more transparency and control over how their data is handled, especially as artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more widespread. A recent survey by IDC, commissioned by Expereo, found that nearly half (47%) of UK enterprises now want greater control over their most sensitive data. Almost a third (29%) of British businesses consider digital sovereignty—a concept referring to a nation's control over its digital assets and data—to be a top or high priority. Additionally, more than a quarter (27%) of these businesses see digital sovereignty as a major factor influencing their technology investments.
Security and privacy concerns are also a significant barrier to adopting AI, with over half (58%) of surveyed organizations citing these issues as a major challenge. Expereo’s CEO, Ben Elms, explained that the push for digital sovereignty is largely driven by the need for more control over how data flows across cloud computing, networks, and AI systems. A similar proportion (56%) of tech leaders expressed concern that AI could introduce new security risks for their companies. Expereo emphasizes that digital sovereignty is not only about where data is stored but also about how it moves between different digital environments, advocating for greater transparency and visibility in these processes.
A quarter (26%) of the surveyed organizations noted that customers and business partners are increasingly pushing for data to be localized, meaning stored within specific geographic regions. Globally, 33% of organizations consider digital sovereignty a high or top priority, though the reasons vary by region. In Europe, strict data protection laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) are major drivers, while in the United States, the focus is more on national security. Despite these regional differences, AI is emerging as a common concern worldwide.
As AI adoption continues to grow, Elms highlights the importance of visibility into data flows. He states that understanding and controlling how data moves will become essential for businesses to maintain control, manage risks, and operate confidently across different countries and legal systems. This growing emphasis on transparency and control reflects a broader trend as organizations navigate the complexities of the digital age.
UK Businesses Push for Greater Data Control Amid AI Adoption Concerns
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