Archive · 4 Jan 2026
CEOs Must Prioritize Data Protection for Customer Confidence
Sachin Tayal, a leader at Protiviti, says that CEOs should take data protection very seriously.
This is because new laws in India make companies responsible for how they handle data.
If they don't follow these rules, they can get big fines and hurt their reputation.
Tayal says that CEOs should talk to their employees about data protection, use the right tools to manage data, and be ready to act quickly if there's a data breach.
He also mentions that companies might need to hire a special person, called a Chief Data Officer, to manage all data-related issues.
Small businesses might not need this, but they should still make sure they follow the rules.
Tayal believes that protecting data is especially important because it's used in things like AI, and companies should make sure they're doing this right to keep their customers happy and trust them.
CEOs must actively engage in data protection efforts to ensure customer confidence and comply with India's DPDP Act.
A survey found that 82% of respondents distrust company data handling, indicating growing client seriousness about data privacy.
CEOs should budget for data protection tools, train employees, and establish quick response protocols for data breaches.
Large companies may need to appoint a Chief Data Officer to manage data programs and compliance, while SMBs can assign this responsibility to existing executives.
Protecting data is crucial for AI development, requiring proper policies, employee training, and data mapping processes.
- Who
- Sachin Tayal, Managing Director at Protiviti
- What
- The importance of CEOs prioritizing data protection and compliance with the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act
- When
- With the enforcement of data and privacy protection laws in India
- Where
- India
- Why
- To ensure customer confidence, avoid fines, and protect company reputation
- Key Speaker
- Sachin Tayal, Managing Director, Protiviti
- Survey Finding
- 82% of respondents distrust company data handling
- Impact of Data Breach
- 30% share price drop for US credit bureau
- CEO Responsibilities
- Monthly reviews, employee training, policy implementation
- Structural Change
- Appointment of Chief Data Officer in large companies
- SMB Compliance
- Executives may handle data protection responsibilities
- AI and Data
- Protect data during collection, processing, and storage
- Consent Application
- CEOs' names published in consent applications