Question

How do you see the recent IT evolution (e.g. platforms, big data, Internet of Things, etc.) affect Internet security and privacy of internet users?

Given the growing security and privacy concern about how companies handle internet users’ data, multiple approaches have been suggested on how to address the issue. Among the suggested solutions are calls for companies to actually pay Internet users to use their data (e.g. see here, here, and here) and/or stricter regulations on companies’ using and sharing users’ data. Do you agree/disagree with such suggested solutions? Why or why not? List some examples of business ideas and/or regulatory ideas that you think would help address security and privacy concern going forward.

Answer 1

The last few years has revolutionized the use of internet. Internet is indispensible part of many processes. There are recent developments like cloud computing, internet of things etc. which are highly advanced internet processes. But with the rising use of internet, it has become common that privacy of users is compromised. Computer systems store user data in locally in the device or in the cloud. Makers and users argue that these processes come with huge benefits; however it has raised concerns on privacy and security of the users. The data that is saved might be potentially used by anyone and anywhere whoever purchases the data.

In the light of rising privacy concerns, several suggestions have been offered to avoid misuse of data: 1. Companies should pay the users for use of data. 2. There must be strict regulations regarding the use if data.

I agree with both these suggestions.

Companies operate to make money from the profits. To achieve the profits, they resort to many ideas like use of user data which might prove to be a security concern for the users. If these very companies are made to pay for the usage of data, it may deter them from using data in fear of losing the money. Therefore, there are fewer chances that user data may not be used or misused.

The second suggestion is strict regulations. Yes, strict laws will deter the companies from using the data of the users. The regulations must come with heavy penalty in case any company does not follow it. Financial penalties and threats like delicensing will harm the image of the company. Therefore, it is highly unlikely that companies will not misuse the data.

Apart from these suggestions, some other measures may be taken. It may include running campaigns on sensitizing the companies on adverse impacts of misusing the data. Consumer forums must also educate the consumers to conceal their own data to avoid theft by the companies.