While consumers remain apprehensive about AI applications involving their personal data, the study underscores that 91 percent of organisations recognise the imperative to enhance efforts
A report by Cisco’s 2024 Data Privacy Benchmark Study, has revealed that a significant portion of organisations are cautious in adopting generative AI (GenAI). The study highlights that over one in four organisations have opted to ban GenAI due to concerns surrounding data privacy and security risks.
The major apprehensions among businesses revolve around the potential threats to an organisation’s legal and intellectual property rights, with a whooping 69 per cent citing this as a top concern,68 per cent of organisations express unease over the risk of information disclosure to the public or competitors.
Despite these reservations, the study indicates that nearly half of the surveyed organisations, accounting for 48 per cent, admit to inputting non-public company information into GenAI tools. However, a striking 91 per cent of businesses acknowledge the need for enhanced measures to reassure customers that their data is being utilised solely for intended and legitimate purposes within AI frameworks.
According to Dev Stahlkopf, Cisco’s Chief Legal Officer, “Organisations perceive GenAI as a fundamentally distinct technology with unique challenges to navigate.” Stahlkopf emphasises the necessity for innovative governance strategies, noting that more than 90 per cent of respondents believe GenAI demands novel techniques for data and risk management to preserve customer trust.
In response to these concerns, a majority of organisations are taking proactive steps to mitigate risks associated with GenAI usage. Approximately 63 per cent have implemented restrictions on the types of data permissible for input, while 61 per cent have imposed limitations on which employees are authorised to utilise GenAI tools.
While consumers remain apprehensive about AI applications involving their personal data, the study underscores that 91 percent of organisations recognise the imperative to enhance efforts in reassuring customers regarding the lawful and intended utilisation of their data within AI frameworks.
However, despite this recognition, the report notes that progress in addressing these concerns appears stagnant compared to previous years, indicating a persistent challenge in achieving substantial advancements in data privacy practices within the AI landscape.
The findings of the Cisco 2024 Data Privacy Benchmark Study shed light on the complex landscape of GenAI adoption, highlighting the critical need for robust governance frameworks and heightened transparency to alleviate concerns surrounding data privacy and security risks.
