Half of UK businesses say AI fears mean they want more control over their data as calls for digital sovereignty grow (www.techradar.com)

A recent IDC survey commissioned by Expereo reveals that 50% of UK businesses now seek greater control over their sensitive data, citing security and privacy concerns as significant barriers to AI adoption. With 58% of respondents highlighting these issues, the push for digital sovereignty has emerged as a critical priority, with nearly a third of organizations considering it a top concern. This represents a shift in how companies approach their data strategy, as they respond to both leadership apprehensions and customer demands for localized data management. Digital sovereignty encompasses not only data residency but also the movement of data across various networks and cloud environments. Expereo CEO Ben Elms emphasizes the need for increased transparency and visibility in data handling to mitigate potential risks associated with AI technologies. As AI adoption accelerates globally, the focus on digital sovereignty is expected to grow, with 33% of organizations worldwide prioritizing this issue. Regulatory frameworks in Europe, such as GDPR, and national security considerations in the US further illustrate the regional differences in this movement, but the overarching goal remains consistent: to empower organizations to manage their data confidently and securely.