Trust, Privacy, and the Responsible Use of Data: Insights from the 2025 AccessPrivacy–Environics Survey
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In May and June 2025, AccessPrivacy and Environics Analytics conducted a survey that captured the perspectives of Canadian business leaders, lawyers, and privacy professionals on the evolving relationship between trust, privacy, and responsible data use. The findings—discussed during the AccessPrivacy Annual Conference on June 12, 2025—reveal a strong consensus: safeguarding personal data is no longer a compliance exercise, but a core element of organizational sustainability and innovation.
Why This Is Relevant
As businesses increasingly rely on data to fuel artificial intelligence, predictive analytics, and digital transformation strategies, public trust has become the cornerstone of success. A single breach or misuse of data can irreparably damage reputations and erode consumer confidence. The survey underscores that:
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96% of respondents view respectful handling of personal information as essential for long-term organizational success.
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96% also believe privacy laws are necessary to sustain trust in the digital ecosystem.
These results signal a shift in boardroom priorities: privacy is no longer just the Chief Privacy Officer’s domain—it’s a strategic business concern. The key findings are the following:
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The Chief Privacy Officer as a Trust Builder – 71% of respondents said their CPO plays a critical role in building stakeholder trust, highlighting how privacy leadership has become a driver of brand reputation and customer loyalty.
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Barriers to Responsible Data Use – Organizations identified three major challenges in responsibly leveraging personal data:
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Internal data management hurdles (47%), particularly siloed systems that prevent seamless oversight.
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Outdated privacy legislation (38%), reflecting the gap between fast-moving technologies and slow-moving laws.
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Legal and regulatory uncertainty (35%), which complicates long-term planning.
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National Strategy on AI is Urgent – Respondents ranked the development of a national policy framework for AI as the top priority for Minister Evan Solomon, recognizing that the success of AI innovation hinges on clear, trusted rules for responsible use.
What We Foresee as Important
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Privacy as a Strategic Asset
Organizations will increasingly compete on trust. Those that embed privacy as a value—not just a compliance requirement—will gain long-term competitive advantage. -
Legislative Modernization Will Accelerate
The demand for updated privacy laws is growing louder. Canada is likely to see renewed momentum toward modernized legislation, aligned with global standards like the GDPR. -
Chief Privacy Officers Will Gain Influence
With CPOs recognized as central to organizational trust, their role will continue to evolve into board-level strategic advisors—bridging legal, ethical, and technological domains. -
AI Governance Will Dominate the Policy Agenda
Respondents’ call for a national AI framework reflects an urgent reality: without strong rules for responsible AI, Canada risks falling behind both in innovation and in safeguarding its citizens.
The Bigger Picture
The AccessPrivacy–Environics survey makes clear that Canadian organizations understand the stakes: responsible data use is inseparable from long-term growth and legitimacy. The message to policymakers and business leaders is consistent—modernize laws, break down internal silos, and empower privacy leaders to act as guardians of trust.
Because in the digital economy, trust is not just a value—it is currency.