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Theory and policy in online privacy

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Knowledge, Technology & Policy

Abstract

Two technological behemoths, the computer and the Internet, have greatly facilitated the ease of collecting, managing, processing, and sharing information about individuals. This has been beneficial in accomplishing some socially and economically valuable objectives such as preventing fraud, tracking illegal behavior, and introducing potential customers to goods and services in which they may be interested. Unfortunately, the unfettered accumulation and analysis of personal data—both knowingly and inadvertently while web browsing online—has also ushered in significant privacy concerns. This thought piece introduces the issue, provides case studies and relevant legislation to underscore its gravity, and presents two rough theoretical models to aid in construing the phenomenon of online privacy. Suggestions for how the interpretive frameworks can be tested are also provided, along with a general call for increased legislation of transactional activity in cyberspace.

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His research interests include computer crime, corporate security, and criminological theory.

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Hinduja, S. Theory and policy in online privacy. Know Techn Pol 17, 38–58 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02687075

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