The study*, carried out by IFOP for IDECSI and CESIN in May 2024, reveals growing concern among employees regarding the security of their data as well as the importance of a cybersecurity culture reinforced by secure digital practices within companies. An initial study was carried out in 2019.
Learn about the concerns of French employees and the impact of artificial intelligence.
On the agenda:
Risky behaviour: 27% of employees use external AI tools with personal accounts, and 10% enter professional data into them.
The vigilance of employees of large companies in digital matters is increasing: in a trend that is both strong and consistent, we observe that employees are very concerned about the security of their professional data and the future consequences of artificial intelligence (AI). A concern that is all the more acute as employees are far from fully mastering the tools made available to them and, for some, even engage in “risky practices”.
31% of employees avoid using certain tools provided by their company, which can impact productivity and technology adoption. Distrust of digital tools can also lead to reduced collaboration and effectiveness within teams.
This situation is worrying because the mobilisation of employees is essential to improve cybersecurity. Businesses must act quickly to protect sensitive information.
Studies show that poorly defined security policies can contribute to a climate of mistrust, where employees feel constrained rather than empowered in their use of digital tools. Moreover, 72% believe that less restrictive security tools would encourage the adoption of digital technologies.
Despite these challenges, awareness of the importance of data security appears to be well established among employees. An overwhelming majority (91%) believe that all employees should be involved in the overall data security strategy. 91% also believe that individual security management helps limit the risks of hacking, and 90% say that data security relies on each person having control over their digital environment.
Cybersecurity issues are now seen as being as crucial as other societal issues such as sustainable development, with 89% of employees sharing this view.
"It is abnormal that even today, employees say they are worried about the security of their data. Some even go as far as not using digital tools provided by the company. This is a problematic situation for companies that are in the midst of digital acceleration and AI deployment. There is a decisive lever to work on here to increase confidence and the quality of work"
*Large survey conducted in May 2024 (an initial IFOP study was carried out in 2019) among a representative sample of employees of companies with 1,000 employees or more working in France for IDECSI and CESIN.
CESIN is an association that promotes cybersecurity and the sharing of best practices, bringing together more than 1,000 members from various sectors.
They talk about it