Subscribe

Big data a privacy threat

Nicola Mawson
By Nicola Mawson, Contributor.
Johannesburg, 02 Nov 2011

The use of big data, while not yet mainstream, could lead to end-users handing over complete control of their information, says EMC.

Rohit Ghai, VP and GM of EMC's Content and Case Management Group, says the use of big data involves walking a “fine line”. He says privacy concerns could get in the way of accessing some data points.

However, says Ghai, many industries are already making use of people's “digital shadow”, and are using the information. He points out that social media is monitored to predict whether a civil war will break out.

There will be concerns over the use of big data, but if people can be persuaded that there is value, they may embrace it, says Ghai. He cites the use of telematics in the insurance industry to track drivers' behaviour and offer discounted cover as an example.

Rob Anderson, CTO of EMC unit Isilon's Europe, Middle East and Africa region, says the use of big data is a “tricky problem” that could result in a digital rights management (DRM) evolution, or people giving up control of their information.

However, a shift in DRM is unlikely, adds Anderson. “I don't think anyone knows exactly where this is going.”

Anderson says big data becomes more valuable as it grows, and firms want to access as much as they can. However, he points out that its use may be limited by regulation, competition among companies and privacy laws.

Crystal ball

Information Intelligence Group (IIG) chief marketing and strategy officer Jeetu Patel explains that big data can be used to give an indication of future behaviour or demand. However, he says unlike the traditional use of a handful of data points, it is not conclusive.

The challenge is to keep up with the volumes of data being generated, says Patel. He points out that, every hour, 3.2 million credit card transactions take place.

As the volume of data increases, it is physically impossible for humans to keep track, and companies need to automate the process, says Patel.

Big data has historically been the privilege of the few, such as companies like Google, says Patel. Although not yet mainstream, he expects every business process to use big data in the future.

Patel adds that big data, which is about mining many different types of information, such as what is posted on social networks, will aid companies in cutting down on fraud, for example.

Mawson is hosted in Berlin courtesy of EMC.

Share