A survey by The Alan Turing Institute’s Centre for Emerging Technology and Security (CETaS) has found that 79% of UK adults support the collection and processing of personal data by national security agencies to investigate terrorism and serious crimes. The study, which included over 3,000 UK adults and a citizens panel, provides the first measurement of public trust in the data practices of UK intelligence agencies.
The data shows that 75% of respondents endorse using personal data to detect foreign government spies, while 69% support its use in crime investigations involving suspected connections. However, the level of support varies with the intended use of the data; 28% of participants oppose using personal data to train automated tools for predicting behaviours.
When considering the use of data to inform long-term strategies and policies, 52% express approval, whereas only 28% are in favour of sharing this data with commercial organisations. The survey also reveals demographic differences: 49% of individuals aged 18 to 34 support the processing of public social media posts by security agencies, compared to 61% of those aged 55 and over. Among vulnerable groups, support stands at 52%, while it reaches 62% among non-vulnerable groups.
“This research is the first of its kind to explore public attitudes towards data processing in a national security context,” said The Alan Turing Institute research associate Rosamund Powell. “It reveals that there is no single public stance on privacy, and agencies must gain a deeper understanding of public sentiment to ensure that data processing remains proportionate and trusted.”
Awareness of intelligence agencies’ data powers remains low
The report highlights a widespread lack of awareness about the intelligence agencies’ powers to collect data. Only 15% of respondents are fully aware that agencies can gather information about UK residents without their knowledge.
Many respondents mistakenly believe that intelligence agencies have minimal oversight, but were both surprised and reassured upon learning about the stringent procedures required before data collection. The findings suggest a public interest in more education about these safeguards.
“As the UK embraces new technological capabilities to strengthen national security, it is crucial that these tools operate within a robust legal framework that maintains public trust,” said Investigatory Powers Commissioner Sir Brian Leveson. “This research provides valuable insights into public attitudes, which will support balanced dialogue and informed decision-making on national security data processing.”
Earlier this month, the UK government announced comprehensive plans for the upcoming Cyber Security and Resilience Bill. This legislation is designed to strengthen cybersecurity infrastructure within vital public services and critical sectors. Around 1,000 service providers will be encompassed within this legislative framework, which seeks to safeguard organisations offering essential IT services against cyber threats.
Read more: UK government details scope of upcoming Cyber Security and Resilience Bill
