Most EU App Users Do Not Trust US or CN Companies with Their Data

A new survey by Politico shows that the vast majority of people in the European Union do not trust US or Chinese tech companies to handle their personal data responsibly. The Politico European Pulse survey, conducted among 6,698 adults across the EU, found that 84% of respondents do not trust US-based tech firms with their data. Trust in Chinese providers is even lower, with 93% expressing distrust.

In contrast, trust levels for EU-based technology companies are significantly higher. The findings suggest that many EU citizens support strong data protection rules, such as the GDPR, which require websites to offer users control over tracking cookies and data usage.

This applies to all kinds of apps and platforms that retain data, from social media and dating apps to games and video editing software. There is ongoing skepticism toward foreign tech platforms, even as social media and digital services play a major role in daily life.

The results come amid broader tensions between the EU and US tech companies. EU regulations have been criticized by some as indirect barriers or penalties aimed at successful American firms. However, the data indicates that many EU residents view these rules as necessary protections rather than protectionism. Concerns about how personal information is collected, stored, and used by large foreign platforms remain high.

As a side note, while cookie consent pop-ups and similar mechanisms can create friction for users, the survey suggests they reflect genuine public demand for greater control over personal data. Users seem eager to retain them, even if they create additional mandatory clicks or taps before platforms can be used properly.