DailyPost 132
BIG DATA – THE FLIP SIDE
We are being datafied is a reality of life ; when location apart, feelings and sentiments have also become data. The surge of data creation and its usage seems to be unstoppable. Herein, comes Big Data; still in nascent stage, but having the capability, to deliver one of its kind solutions to out intractable problems form global warming to cancer treatment. Notwithstanding, the benefits, there is a serious flip side, which has been started being exploited for commercial and other interests. Big Data cannot be allowed to become a big brother.
Who owns the data is the most primary question. The persons who creates the data or the person / company / government who is in possession of the data repository or the data base. The problem gets further confounded wit metadata, the data of data and its usage thereof. Who trades in the data, in which manner and in whose interest?
Data has become an asset and thus has become a value. The value certainly by all rationale and legality can only belong to the person who is the owner. All elements of property rights ought to be legally associated with the data. Does the personal data belong to us?
Data now is a part of us. It’s a human right. It is inalienable to us. Person owns his property and also his labor. It has to be protect as we protect money in the banks. It can be traded. Data exchanges should become a commonplace in the days to come.
Privacy of data should be under the control of the individual, when he gets to know what data is being collected and why & how is his data being shared, creating an inventory and flow that can be controlled. Our phones and our computers should be legally & technically enabled to track our data and any misuse should become legally & criminally accountable. Personal data has to be regulated. Common & open data and it’s modalities also needs to be legally defined.
UNREGULATED BIG DATA CAN USHER IN THE DEMISE OF FREE WILL.
Sanjay Sahay