Data-driven products and services are often marketed with the potential to save users time and money or even lead to better health and well-being. Some 81% of the public say that the potential risks they face because of data collection by companies outweigh the benefits, and 66% say the same about government data collection.At the same time, a majority of Americans report being concerned about the way their data is being used by companies or the government .Most also feel they have little or no control over how these entities use their personal information, according to a new survey of U.S.
For example, 79% of Americans say they are not too or not at all confident that companies will admit mistakes and take responsibility if they misuse or compromise personal information, and 69% report having this same lack of confidence that firms will use their personal information in ways they will be comfortable with.
For instance, respondents were asked: As far as you know, how much of what you do online or on your cellphone is being tracked by the government?
It is difficult to determine how much personal data the government collects and otherwise can access through private company records. Administrative government agencies like the IRS, Census Bureau, Postal Service and social welfare departments gather various personal details about people.