Razorpay’s COO recently highlighted a concerning trend in the tech industry at the ET Soonicorns Summit 2025. During the summit, the COO voiced concerns that data privacy is frequently overlooked during the initial stages of product development. This practice, they suggested, places user data at unnecessary risk and potentially violates emerging data protection regulations. The implication is that companies prioritize speed and functionality over robust security measures from the outset.

This revelation underscores a broader issue within the fast-paced startup environment. The pressure to quickly bring innovative products to market often overshadows the critical importance of integrating data privacy considerations from the ground up. Building secure data handling into a product’s architecture from the beginning is significantly more efficient and cost-effective than attempting to retrofit solutions later. Ignoring this crucial step can lead to costly breaches, reputational damage, and legal repercussions.

The comments from the Razorpay COO serve as a cautionary tale for aspiring and established tech companies alike. Prioritizing user data protection isn’t merely a compliance issue; it’s a fundamental aspect of building trust and fostering long-term customer relationships. In an increasingly data-driven world, a company’s commitment to data privacy is becoming a key differentiator, influencing consumer choices and brand loyalty. A shift in mindset is needed, placing data privacy on an equal footing with other critical development considerations. The future of successful tech companies will hinge on integrating robust data protection into the very core of their product development lifecycle.