Why It’s So Hard for Users to Control Their Data

A recent IBM study found that 81% of consumers say that they have become more concerned about how their data is used online. But most users continue to hand over their data and tick consent boxes impatiently to get to the next site, giving rise to a” privacy paradox,” where users’ concerns aren’t reflected in their behaviors. Data governance is a daunting challenge for companies and regulators alike. What we’re missing is a system that defines and grants users “digital agency” – the ability to own the rights to their personal data, manage access to this data and, potentially, be compensated fairly for such access. This would make data similar to other forms of personal property: a home, a bank account or even a mobile phone number.