Survey: Consumers See Themselves as Primary Stewards of Their Own Data Privacy

New SIIA research reveals that consumers overwhelmingly view themselves as the primary stewards of their own data privacy, preferring autonomy and informed choice over restrictive, top-down regulation. Sixty-seven percent of respondents say they-not government agencies or technology companies-bear the greatest responsibility for protecting their personal data, underscoring a strong desire for control and transparency in the digital ecosystem.

The findings also show a clear preference for the free, data-reliant services that underpin much of today's internet, with consumers favoring balanced frameworks and reasonable guardrails over blanket restrictions. Consumers are especially comfortable with data uses that provide tangible benefits such as fraud prevention and security, and their comfort increases significantly when privacy-enhancing technologies and clear limits on government access are in place. Together, the results point to a consumer-centric approach to privacy policy that empowers individuals while preserving valuable digital services.