We live in a digital world, which runs on data — whether it is our personal journals, financial records, government IDs or rental agreements. However, even as we share and upload data online, there is always a sense of caution as to whether the data is truly safe. Questions arise as to who owns this data, who manages and accesses it, and who ensures that it remains safe.

Data on the Cloud

Cloud storage is the go-to option for many. It stores data on remote servers, which are quick to access. Cloud data is generally safe if one uses reputable providers like AWS, Google Cloud, or Microsoft Azure, as they offer strong security measures such as encryption, regular audits, and data redundancy. However, security is a shared responsibility — while the provider secures the infrastructure, users must properly configure access controls, use strong authentication, and manage encryption keys. However, while some apps claim to be end-to-end encrypted, data vulnerabilities pose a great risk, especially during transmission or when data is stored in cloud backups, which may not be encrypted. At RentenPe, we ensure that all user data is securely stored and shared only with user consent. The control ensures that the risk of data misuse is minimised and trust is built. We have implemented the foundational pillars of a secure cloud environment. With data encryption, access controls, threat protection and monitoring, regular auditing, and timely patching all in place, we align with the best industry practices for cloud security.

Credibility of Digital Tools

The claim ‘end-to-end encryption’ may offer a sense of ease to most users, but what does it really imply? Put simply, it denotes that data is encrypted on the sender’s device and decrypted only on the recipient’s device, mitigating chances of unauthorised access during the course of the transmission. Despite this, if users share messages, take screenshots or store chats across different devices, it can cause vulnerabilities, particularly when cloud backups are not encrypted. A study by Consumer Unity & Trust Society has found that only 1 in 250 people understand how end-to-end encryption secures the privacy of their chats on messaging platforms and are willing to pay an amount to guard their conversations. This number is awfully concerning as it shows a major gap in digital awareness and literacy. At RentenPe, we obtain informed consent from the user, encrypting data in transit and at rest, limiting access through role-based controls, and minimizing data collection to what is strictly necessary. We ensure legal and ethical use of personal data.

Behind the Terms and Conditions

Most users often overlook the small print right at the bottom of identity verification apps and e-signature tools. The legal jargon also makes it difficult for an average user to comprehend it. In the same manner, data usage disclosures which often pop-up when users visit websites may outline how user data is collected, processed and shared. However, most people misunderstand these clauses. While the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (2023) formulates that personal data can only be collected and processed with clear and informed consent from the user. However, users frequently accept terms without completely understanding their implications.

Rise of Digital Illiteracy

Most internet users are driven by quick outcomes. However, they often lack knowledge of data rights. Many users remain unaware about their rights to access, correct, and erase their personal data. Furthermore, a lack of digital literacy impedes their ability to navigate privacy settings, understand data policies, as well as exercise their rights effectively. The Government of India has implemented a robust user data protection framework which addresses growing concerns around data security. The Digital Personal Data Protection Act (2023) is the primary user data protection law of the country.  It applies to all personal data collected – whether online or digitised later.

Taking the Legal Course

As per the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, data fiduciaries must provide a privacy notice detailing why data is being collected, what data is being collected and how it will be used. They should also provide contact details for grievance redressal. This legislation highlights consent-based data processing, data principal rights, and strict penalties for non-compliance. The act is projected to have an effect on a majority of organisational areas, including legal, IT, human resources, sales and marketing, procurement, finance, and information security due to the type and volume of personal data that is collected, stored, processed, retained, and disposed of by them.

Role of Developers

Building a privacy-first app depends on the app’s complexity, platforms supported, and the level of privacy features implemented. Core privacy elements—like end-to-end encryption, local-only data storage, anonymous authentication, and compliance with regulations such as GDPR or HIPAA—can add significant development time and cost. These features require experienced developers, security audits, and often a custom backend or private cloud infrastructure, making privacy-first apps more resource-intensive than standard ones. At Rentenpe, we have a dedicated team for every single check point with code check for QA and testing on the security front.

Small Start-ups v/s Big Tech Companies

Although we are still growing, but at RentenPe, we follow all compliance of data protection as big tech. With data encryption, access controls, threat protection and monitoring, regular auditing, and timely patching all in place, we align with industry best practices for cloud security.