71% of AI users regret data sharing due to privacy fears

New research conducted by Syrenis has revealed that 71% of AI users regret sharing their data with AI tools after realising the extent of what was shared.

The study, carried out by the Liverpool City Region-based data privacy software company, highlights an increasing concern among AI users regarding personal data privacy. Based at Sci-Tech Daresbury, Syrenis has launched Cassie, a consent and preference management platform that handles over 1.2 billion customer records worldwide across large organisations in various sectors, ensuring consent data is both auditable and up-to-date.

According to Cassie's research report, "The AI Trade Off," 54% of consumers are unaware of the amount of personal data collected by AI tools. The report gathered responses from over 600 individuals spread across 31 states in the United States. It also revealed that 79% of those who claimed not to use AI admitted uncertainty about which tools utilise AI technology.

The report underscores a growing unease towards AI as it becomes more embedded in everyday applications. Concerns about privacy violations, such as unauthorised data retention or leaks, have led to increased demands for transparency and user control over AI's operation. Consumer bodies are advocating for clear disclosure when AI is used to safeguard personal information.

Nicky Watson, Founder and Chief Architect of Cassie, expressed: "The world of AI is changing, and the rules surrounding privacy and data feel like they're shifting all the time. When using AI tools, it's increasingly difficult for consumers to track how their personal data is used and stored, resulting in individuals having low confidence when making decisions online."

She further stated: "To combat this, companies need to adopt complete transparency when using AI on their platform, informing consumers when AI is present and explaining exactly how their personal data will be used by the technology before consent is given."

The study found that 89% of consumers do not view AI as inherently negative but believe it requires more stringent regulation. Furthermore, 79% stated they would be more inclined to agree to data sharing if stricter regulations were in place.

John Leake, Business Growth Director at Sci-Tech Daresbury, added: "It's gratifying to see such important, topical research carried out on campus here at Sci-Tech Daresbury. Cassie is a key part of the growing cluster of companies and organisations on the campus developing and applying AI solutions across a variety of sectors. AI is already changing the world for the better in many ways, but transparency around potential pitfalls of the technology is imperative."

He continued by noting the global reach and implications of this research: "While Cassie may be based in the Liverpool City Region, its compliance management work operates on the world stage, and it's research like this that can help businesses and consumers across the globe navigate the complications of using AI."