The Secret Life of Data
Data availability is one of the most significant factors that are characteristic of the modern world and that determine its further evolution. It is gathered continually, encoded and utilized to make some sort of decisions affecting our lives. Whether it is in the form of screen advertisements or unique suggestions considered according to past and present behaviors, data ties us to reality. Yet, the advancement in algorithmic surveillance has given birth to data as a tool and its use and misuse as well. In this article, on the basis of the analyzed case, we will explain what life data really has, and how to avoid the hype and the shadow unaired by algorithmic surveillance.
The Rise of Algorithmic Surveillance
It is harder for companies and governments to hide data now because with technological development the collection and analysis of big data is more manageable. As a result of the above factors, algorithmic surveillance has emerged in which algorithms are used to track individuals’ behavior, movement, and activities. These decisions concern individuals on aspects such as employment, credit ratings or even a prison term to be served.
The Hype of Data Collection
It can be said that data collection certainly has its advantages. It provides the users with more unique experiences and can hardly be detrimental to numerous fields. However, there is also a lot of very strong and sometimes even exaggerated expectations connected with the collection of data. Businesses, one way or the other, are always glued to the band that data gathering is vital for advancement and creativity. This hype can be very deceptive and can make one feel that the only option left is to provide their personal details.
The Uncertainty of Data Use
The major drawback of shockingly algorithmic supervise is that one cannot really tell how their information is being utilized. Given the highly frequent and more recent application of AI and Machine learning, it is rather difficult to decipher how the algorithms arrive at certain decision based on the information provided. This can at times make results unfair and biased…. It also brings to debate to whose disposal are we surrendering our data and how this data is being shielded.
Navigating the Age of Algorithmic Surveillance
The complexity of the task increases when the context is the Age of ‘Big Data’ and algorithmic surveillance. Although algorithmic surveillance is here to stay, one can be more conscious about it. Here are some tips to help protect your data and privacy:
1. Be Mindful of what you share online
Particularly, always ensure that you are careful about what you post on your social media accounts. One of the best protectors of data is what individuals make available to the public domain or transfer to the wrong end. As much as possible, do not enter any personal information, unless you have to do so and you are sure that the company or organization you are dealing with can be trusted on personal information.
2. Read the terms and conditions
In case the terms and conditions have to be read, there must be a command that refers to the terms of the website. Everyone has been through the submission of a account creating form and checked the ‘I agree’ button without actually reading the terms and conditions. Nonetheless, in data sharing various aspects need to be understood in order to be agreed upon especially on the side of personal data. Since it may take a while to read through the entire terms and conditions when agreeing to share your data, it may be important to do so.
3. Use privacy settings
Where you are able it restrict the kind of information that you post online to known people by creating your privacy settings. This can assist in minimizing the spate of personal information as being availed to companies or other organizations.
4. Educate yourself about data privacy laws
You also need to increase your awareness concerning data privacy laws. One must update with the data protection laws in their country. Understanding your rights allows you to take proper measures regarding your data and monitor companies that collect and use people’s information.
5. Support companies with transparent data policies
Supply the backing to firms with good and sensible data strategies As for the data sharing look for the companies with the clear and understandable data policy. These companies will disclose how they gather and utilize your information and also own ways of preserving your privacy.
In Conclusion Algorithmic power is the new form of surveillance and one should proceed with it carefully. With awareness on what one shares, knowledge of one’s rights and backing of companies that respects data privacy the citizens can actually keep their information safe in this digital world. Bear in mind that the information which we input to the calculators is ours and should be protected as such.
