CNIL Survey Reveals Shift in Attitudes Toward Paid Digital Services

On October 29, 2025, the French data protection authority, CNIL, released findings from a survey exploring public perceptions of personal data usage and consent in online advertising.

Conducted by Harris Interactive, the survey involved 2,082 participants aged 15 and over, revealing a notable shift in consumer attitudes towards monetization models in digital services. While paid subscriptions are gaining traction, particularly in streaming services, the majority of respondents indicated a preference for alternatives to targeted advertising, with 24% to 33% expressing willingness to pay for services currently offered for free.

The survey underscores the evolution of digital service monetization, highlighting the intrusive nature of data exploitation in existing “free” models. The results suggest that service providers may need to reconsider their strategies, particularly those relying on the “consent or pay” approach. As consumers become more aware of their privacy rights, compliance with data protection regulations will be paramount. Digital service providers should prepare for potential shifts in user preferences and adapt their offerings to align with the growing demand for privacy-centric options, thereby ensuring compliance with evolving regulatory expectations.