Digital privacy has become a crucial aspect of people’s digital journey. Now, users might think twice before agreeing with all terms and conditions.
We all are concerned about what we share online and how it affects our privacy. Just like each of us evaluates each condition presented, companies have also started to adapt.
For the most part, companies attempt to accommodate the new privacy-concerned communities, but it is easier said than done. After all, the foundation most companies stand upon is not necessarily equipped to become more private. At the very least, it will take some serious alterations to the way businesses are run.
Currently, customer data is a deeply valued asset worldwide. However, this situation leaves users at a disadvantage. Netizens must take care of their privacy and ensure that companies do not exploit it.
Customer Retention
When it comes to making profits out of your business, customer retention is the key, whether it is e-commerce or something else. If you can retain a customer and keep purchasing from your business, the chances of successful profit-making are more than 100%.
However, it is not that easy because many firms make similar products. So, while purchasing a product, consumers keep privacy in mind. If the user does not feel safe sharing data with you, they will not buy from you. According to Forbes, businesses
Hence, if you want to retain your customers, you need to keep them informed about how their data is used. According to Forbes, there are many things to consider. For instance, explicit consent is a must, and data-gathering activities should proceed only with customers’ full permission.
Customer Satisfaction
Like customer retention, customer satisfaction is the second critical thing that clients consider strengthening their privacy. If you can let your customers know what measures you have taken to ensure that their data is secure, they will feel good about using your services. Moreover, if you inform them how their data will be used, they will be more comfortable sharing data with you.
For instance, if you inform the customer that their purchase history will provide them with personalized products and services, they might share their personal information with you.
But the thing here is trust. If customers trust you and believe that you have put effort into safeguarding their data, then it’s a win for both of you.
Regulations
Regulations are another factor that affects the client’s concern towards digital privacy. As per the General Data Protection Regulation that the European Parliament and Council agreed upon in 2016, there are certain conditions that all the nations of the European Union have to follow to ensure the protection of user data. Here are some of them:
- The client needs to seek customer consent before they perform any type of processing on the data.
- The collected data needs to be anonymized to protect privacy.
- Notifications should be provided to the users in case of a data breach.
- Some of the firms might require hiring a data protection officer for overseeing GDPR compliance.
- The captured data needs to be handled carefully across borders.
All these are the reasons clients care about their digital privacy. To make sure that all of these reasons do not lead to something unethical, some methods can be undertaken. According to sources, 128 out of 194 countries have active legislation explaining the procedures for data privacy and security. Thus, companies need to comply with those applicable to them.
Ways to maintain Digital Privacy
As we are well-versed with the reasons for which clients care about digital privacy. No wonder VPN usage and anonymous messaging and emailing services are booming. They are the tools customers need to keep their identity as covert and protected as possible. For instance, tools like Atlas VPN help people evade differential pricing, geo-restrictions, and tracking.
However, let’s take a look at the methods via which they can work on it better!
Seek feedback on Privacy
As privacy is the topmost priority of the customers, it is best to talk to them regarding this. For instance, you can look for feedback from them, like asking them for ideas for privacy protection. Tell them your view and ask them for fair compensation in return for their data.
Clarify the privacy policy
Most tech firms have a long and tough to understand the privacy policy. And most of the customers do not bother to read them. They will either accept it or may also refrain from purchasing if they do not understand it well.
Here, you need to make the policy simple, short and crisp. It is so that people can access, read, and understand them quickly in the minimum time. Clarify the compensation customers and users may expect in exchange for their data, such as money or discounts on services. Moreover, make it easier to opt out of sharing personal information if the consumer does not want to participate.
Final Words
In short, we can say that people have become more aware of their privacy and data protection as we are moving forward in time. So, to keep up with your customer’s needs, you need to focus and devise methods to safeguard their private data. If you’re not doing it right now, then start by asking yourself why. Once you have the answer to this question, take necessary actions to ensure your customer’s data is protected and don’t get their digital privacy violated.
