Data Privacy

The Five Eyes has put the tech industry on notice. They want access to data from tech companies and while there is no formal demand for encryption backdoors, the Five Eyes believe government agencies should have access to encrypted information.

Companies that want to thrive in an increasingly regulated privacy environment must focus more on data transparency for customer loyalty, which consumers have now come to not only value, but expect.

DNA testing companies are collecting millions of DNA samples that include personal health information (PHI) and turning around to sell it to research and pharmaceutical companies. Consumers need to weigh the privacy risks and decide if these DNA testing companies have a heart of gold or are just looking for one.

Secure messaging apps can provide a great means of communicating securely and privately, but there's a privacy dilemma as law enforcement and national security agencies face significant obstacles to the lawful access of communications.

Personalization is driving dynamic, tailored experiences. The reliance on data raises data privacy concerns, and when new “zero-data” sharing social networks like Openbook pop up, questions over the use – and misuse – of data is inevitable.

The technology sector is facing new regulations and increased calls for further regulation, in particular with respect to data privacy and security. Emerging tech companies that plan to succeed should pay attention and be prepared for more questions about privacy and security from investors, strategic partners, consumers and, possibly, regulators.

Drones that were once used only for military purposes have now entered the private sector. With the surveillance culture that is permeating almost every part of modern society, drone surveillance using not just cameras but facial recognition software, IR technology, and speakers are an unprecedented threat to privacy.

Data that is properly anonymised does not fall under the GDPR but anonymization brings about challenges for data analysis. What are the approaches viable for use in a commercial setting?

For CPO Cynthia Van Ort, former North American chief privacy officer for Citigroup and the newly appointed global CPO for a large multinational corporation, a successful privacy approach boils down to delivering consumer empowerment while providing convenient, cutting-edge products and services. Hear her advice for aspiring privacy pros.

Simply following the law is not enough to meet ethical data mining standards. Businesses need to be proactive not just because it’s the right thing to do but also for the enormous business benefits.