Compliance training provider Skillcast has reported a 35% increase in traffic to its Data Protection Act 2018 article in the last month, highlighting a clear workforce concern about how to navigate these new tools correctly.
The spike in traffic comes as staff are more encouraged to use AI at work, however, there are growing concerns around accidental data leaks.
Many employees may be worried that simply putting everyday company or client information into external AI tools could unknowingly expose sensitive data and breach privacy laws.
The increase in clicks to Skillcast’s Data Protection Act page could reflect people seeking clarity on how the law applies to new workplace technologies. According to recent research, 43% of employees are actively concerned that the introduction of new workplace monitoring technology will lead to their privacy being violated.
While the Data Protection Act 2018 isn't new legislation, searches can often spike when older laws collide with disruptive new tech, prompting everyone to rethink their legal rights.
Vivek Dodd, CEO of Skillcast, commented:
“The initial excitement around automating the office is now being dampened by very real anxieties regarding compliance, data protection, and intrusive employee surveillance.
“For compliance and HR leaders, simply trusting a new AI monitoring tool or productivity suite is no longer enough. Our recent 35% spike in data protection inquiries highlights a critical need for deeper oversight and transparency. Companies must move past the temptation of unchecked tracking and instead empower their teams to fully understand how these tools operate. Staff need to feel confident that their everyday communications are handled ethically, under the correct regulatory frameworks, and within the boundaries of the Data Protection Act.
“By moving away from invasive tracking and focusing instead on practical workplace ethics, companies can build the regulatory resilience they need to innovate confidently. Ultimately, clear rules and a commitment to transparency are what will allow businesses to navigate this challenging, ever-changing landscape without alienating their workforce.”
