In fact, it says there's little competition in the field, since few other companies can match its cryptography and privacy-technology credentials. Though it's hard to get a handle on the potential size of the market, tech-watchers like Forrester Research see a growing need for privacy technology. Anyone today who thinks the privacy issue has peaked is greatly mistaken. Forrester said in a March 5 report. As with environmentalism, we are in the early stages of a sweeping change in attitudes that will fuel years of political battles and put once-routine business practices under the microscope.
Companies fear media scrutiny and consumer outrage.
Many are hiring chief privacy officers to ensure Web sites and internal practices conform to privacy policies and regulations. Some are asking auditors to come in and examine privacy policies and how customer data is handled, Gaw noted. It's very difficult for CPOs in companies, particularly weak ones, to really advocate for customers' privacy because they're arguing from a position of weakness. When asked about potential job losses in a Feb. 13 interview about Hevizi's appointment, officials said none were planned. Of the 78 workers laid off, about 35 were in research and development.