Do you know your data-doppelganger?

Data awareness on the rise

Do you know, or dare to know, what information is collected about you online? Internet advertising is a multi-billion dollar business and it keeps on growing exponentially. However, there has been debate about how tech companies collect people’s data and use it for dubious purposes. Giants such as Apple and Google have focused more on privacy during the last year, but in terms of managing your own data, the internet still seems to be the new wild west. 

People have become more aware and concerned about the amount of data being collected about them. Apps and websites are collecting personal information such as location and buying habits, often without asking permission. In a recent study by PCMag, a staggering 70% of the respondents stated they did not agree with companies tracking them for marketing purposes. Tracking may result in better customer service, but oftentimes it also feels intimidating and intruding. Another side of the story are the various online bubbles we quickly find ourselves in. When content becomes more and more targeted, we get to see only the kind of information that supports our perspective on life, excluding opposite viewpoints. 

Data stealers

Huge, uncontrollable amounts of data have given new tools for criminals as well. Identity thefts are on the rise. At the same time law enforcement don’t necessarily have the resources to keep up. In a Statista report of the Finnish cybermarket, 91% of the respondents believed that the risk of becoming a victim of cybercrime is increasing in the future. People have become more aware of the possibilities to control the information shared online. In the same Statista study, 72% of the respondents had tried to adjust their social media settings to protect their privacy.

Tech to the rescue

Despite the concerns, the rapid evolution of technology also has great potential to improve and support our everyday life. As stated in the Forbes article, humane tech could well be the next era of human rights and technology: “We must harness these same technologies to promote greater security, inclusion, participation, and socio-economic development.” To create humane solutions, tech companies need to include expertise from different backgrounds. This helps in creating solutions that include social aspects and human rights into the DNA of emerging technologies.

Go and explore this future scenario in Keops Espa, Eteläesplanadi 12, Helsinki.

The installation has been concepted and executed by Loihde Trust, Kodeco and Loihde Factor.