Implication of Big Data for Individuals

 

In my last few posts, I have discussed all the ways in which Big Data is changing the modern world in the fields of business, science, health care etc. But another question that must be asked is how this effect people individually? As lots of this data is being generated by individuals and being collected and analysed on mass by companies and institutions how can this data be used to effect individuals?

One way to explore these questions is to look at the Investigatory Powers Act of 2016. This controversial piece of legislation grants security services considerable powers in relation to data. The act provides security services with the powers to legally:

Bug Devices – Upon receiving a warrant, security services can legally monitor private devices. Companies are also legally obligated to assist security services in doing so and bypass encryption if possible.

Acquire Bulk Communications – Security services can legally acquire access to large datasets if a serious crime has occurred defined as a crime that could carry a sentence of 12 months or more.

Veto Security Improvements – The Home Office has the power to force technology companies to inform the UK government of planned improvement to security and privacy measures such as encryption.  They can also order a halt to such changes pending review with no time limit. (1)

These powers give power to the government to monitor individuals in a way that was not possible before the modern world of Big Data. Like all modern technologies, legislation lags behind and the ways in which Big Data can be used and the implications on individuals on society is still being decided today.

 

1. https://www.csis.org/analysis/new-investigatory-powers-act-united-kingdom-enhances-government-surveillance-powers

Comments

  1. HarryMay 21, 2025 at 2:30 AM

    Really clear explanation of the Investigatory Powers Act 2016 and its effects.

    ReplyDelete

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