Ethics and Digital Privacy

AI in Recruitment: Navigating Opportunities and Ethical Challenges

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in recruitment has revolutionized the hiring process, providing both opportunities and ethical challenges. Let’s explore how AI is changing the recruitment landscape and how companies can navigate these changes while remaining ethically responsible.

Benefits of Using AI in the Hiring Process

AI-powered tools and algorithms have significantly improved the efficiency and effectiveness of the hiring process. One of the key advantages is the ability to analyze large volumes of data quickly and accurately. This enables recruiters to identify qualified candidates from a vast pool, saving time and resources.

Additionally, AI can eliminate bias in the recruitment process by focusing solely on objective criteria such as skills, qualifications, and experience. By removing human biases, companies can ensure a fair and inclusive hiring process, leading to more diverse teams.

Moreover, AI in the hiring process can also enhance the candidate experience. Through the use of chatbots and automated communication, applicants can receive instant feedback on their application status and engage in real-time conversations with the hiring team. This streamlined communication not only provides a positive experience for candidates but also reflects well on the employer, showcasing a tech-savvy and efficient recruitment process.

Furthermore, AI tools can help recruiters make data-driven decisions by providing insights into market trends, salary benchmarks, and candidate availability. By leveraging this information, hiring managers can tailor their recruitment strategies to attract top talent and stay ahead of the competition. This data-driven approach not only improves the quality of hires but also enhances the overall recruitment process, making it more strategic and impactful.

Ethical Considerations in AI Recruitment

While AI brings immense benefits, it also raises important ethical considerations. One major concern is the potential for algorithmic bias. If the AI tools are trained on biased data or programmed with biased instructions, the hiring process can perpetuate discrimination and inequality. To mitigate this risk, it is crucial to regularly evaluate and refine AI algorithms to ensure fairness and transparency.

Another ethical consideration is privacy. AI tools often rely on analyzing personal data, such as resumes, social media profiles, and online behavior. Companies must be transparent in how they collect, store, and use this data, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations and obtaining informed consent from candidates.

Furthermore, the use of AI in recruitment processes can also impact diversity and inclusion efforts within organizations. While AI can help streamline the hiring process and identify top talent efficiently, there is a risk that it may inadvertently exclude certain groups if not carefully designed. It is essential for companies to proactively address this issue by incorporating diversity metrics into their AI systems and regularly auditing the outcomes to ensure equal opportunities for all candidates.

Moreover, the reliance on AI in recruitment raises questions about the human touch in the hiring process. While AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data quickly, they may lack the empathy and intuition that human recruiters bring to the table. Companies need to strike a balance between automation and human involvement to ensure a personalized and respectful candidate experience.

Implementing AI Tools in Recruitment Strategies

When implementing AI tools in recruitment strategies, companies should focus on striking a balance between automation and human interaction. While AI can streamline the process, it is essential to maintain a personal touch. Candidate experience should not be compromised by excessive reliance on technology.

Furthermore, it is critical to train HR professionals and hiring managers on using AI tools effectively. Understanding the limitations and capabilities of the technology will ensure its optimal utilization and prevent any unintended consequences.

One key benefit of incorporating AI tools in recruitment is the ability to analyze vast amounts of data quickly. AI algorithms can sift through resumes, identify top candidates, and even predict candidate success based on historical data. This data-driven approach can significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of the recruitment process, saving time and resources for the company.

Moreover, AI tools can help mitigate unconscious bias in the hiring process. By removing human subjectivity from initial resume screening, AI can focus solely on qualifications and skills, promoting a more diverse and inclusive workforce. However, it is crucial to continuously monitor and adjust these tools to ensure they are not inadvertently perpetuating bias or discrimination.

Overcoming Bias in AI Recruitment

To overcome bias in AI recruitment, companies need to adopt a multi-pronged approach. Firstly, the data used to train AI algorithms should be diverse and representative. This means actively sourcing data from various demographics and backgrounds.

Secondly, regular auditing of AI tools is necessary to detect and correct any biases that may arise in the recruitment process. This includes analyzing the outcomes to identify any disparities based on protected characteristics and addressing them promptly.

Furthermore, it is crucial for companies to invest in ongoing training for their AI recruitment teams. This training should focus on understanding how biases can manifest in AI algorithms and how to mitigate them effectively. By empowering employees with the knowledge and skills to recognize and address bias, companies can create a more inclusive recruitment process.

Additionally, transparency in AI recruitment processes is essential for building trust with candidates. Companies should clearly communicate how AI is being used in the recruitment process, what data is being collected, and how decisions are being made. This transparency not only helps to mitigate concerns about bias but also demonstrates a commitment to fairness and equality in recruitment practices.

Enhancing Candidate Experience with AI

A key aspect of successful recruitment is providing candidates with a positive experience. AI can play a vital role in enhancing candidate experience by streamlining the application process and providing timely feedback.

Virtual assistants and chatbots powered by AI can engage with candidates, answer their queries, and provide updates, even outside traditional working hours. This automated communication ensures candidates feel valued and well-informed throughout the process.

Moreover, AI can significantly improve the personalization of the recruitment process. By analyzing candidate data and interactions, AI algorithms can tailor job recommendations and communication styles to match individual preferences. This level of customization not only enhances the candidate experience but also increases the likelihood of finding the right fit for both the candidate and the company.

Additionally, AI can revolutionize the candidate screening process by efficiently analyzing resumes and identifying top candidates based on predefined criteria. This not only saves time for recruiters but also ensures a fair and unbiased selection process by focusing solely on qualifications and skills.

In conclusion, AI in recruitment offers tremendous opportunities for improving efficiency and eliminating bias. However, it comes with ethical challenges that must be addressed. Companies should carefully implement and continuously evaluate AI tools to ensure fairness, transparency, and an enhanced candidate experience. By navigating these opportunities and ethical challenges effectively, organizations can unlock the full potential of AI in recruitment.

Cybersecurity in the Age of AI and IoT

A futuristic cityscape with various ai robots and iot devices

With the rapid advancements in technology, AI (Artificial Intelligence) and IoT (Internet of Things) have become integral parts of our daily lives. From smart homes to autonomous vehicles, these technologies offer convenience and efficiency. However, along with their benefits, they also bring new challenges, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity.

The Growing Threat Landscape: AI and IoT Vulnerabilities

In the age of interconnected devices and intelligent systems, the threat landscape has expanded significantly. Hackers and cybercriminals are finding new ways to exploit the vulnerabilities present in AI and IoT deployments. As these technologies continue to evolve, it is crucial to understand the potential risks and take proactive measures to protect our digital ecosystems.

One of the key vulnerabilities of AI and IoT devices is their interconnected nature. Each connected device represents a potential entry point for hackers to exploit and gain unauthorized access to sensitive data or control over critical systems. The increasing reliance on cloud services and the sharing of data between devices further amplifies these risks.

Moreover, the autonomous nature of AI systems can also pose security challenges. Machine learning algorithms can introduce new vulnerabilities and attack vectors if not properly secured. Any weaknesses in the underlying algorithms or data input can be exploited by malicious actors, leading to potentially catastrophic consequences.

Let’s delve deeper into the interconnected nature of AI and IoT devices. Imagine a smart home with various IoT devices such as smart thermostats, security cameras, and voice assistants. These devices communicate with each other and the cloud to provide seamless automation and convenience to homeowners. However, this interconnectedness also opens up avenues for cyberattacks.

For instance, a hacker could exploit a vulnerability in a smart thermostat to gain access to the entire network of devices in the home. Once inside, they could potentially disable security cameras, manipulate the thermostat settings, or even eavesdrop on conversations through voice assistants. The consequences of such intrusions can range from invasion of privacy to physical harm if critical systems like home security are compromised.

Furthermore, the sharing of data between devices and cloud services introduces additional risks. Consider a scenario where an AI-powered healthcare device collects and analyzes personal health data. This data is then shared with a cloud-based platform for further analysis and storage. While this sharing of data enables advanced medical insights and personalized care, it also creates a potential target for cybercriminals.

If a hacker manages to breach the cloud platform or intercept the data transmission, they could gain access to sensitive medical information, leading to identity theft or even manipulation of medical records. The implications of such breaches are not only detrimental to individuals’ privacy but also pose a threat to public health and trust in AI-driven healthcare systems.

In conclusion, the growing threat landscape surrounding AI and IoT vulnerabilities demands our utmost attention and proactive measures. The interconnected nature of these devices, coupled with the autonomous capabilities of AI systems, creates a complex and ever-evolving security challenge. By understanding the risks and implementing robust security measures, we can safeguard our digital ecosystems and ensure the safe and responsible adoption of these transformative technologies.

Securing AI and IoT Devices: Best Practices and Strategies

Ensuring cybersecurity in the age of AI and IoT requires a multi-layered approach. By implementing the following best practices and strategies, we can significantly enhance the security of these technologies:

Secure Device Configuration: It is crucial to change default passwords and disable unnecessary features or services that may increase the attack surface of the device.
Regular Software Updates: Keeping the firmware and software of AI and IoT devices up to date is essential to patch any discovered vulnerabilities.
Encryption: Implementing strong encryption protocols for data transmitted between devices and cloud services can prevent unauthorized access.
Network Segmentation: Separating AI and IoT devices into different network segments can limit the potential impact of a compromised device, enhancing overall security.
User Awareness and Education: Educating users about potential risks and best practices can help prevent common security pitfalls, such as falling victim to phishing attacks or unknowingly granting unnecessary permissions to apps or devices.

Let’s delve deeper into these best practices and strategies to understand their significance in securing AI and IoT devices.

Secure Device Configuration: When it comes to securing AI and IoT devices, one of the first steps is to ensure that default passwords are changed. Default passwords are often widely known and can be easily exploited by attackers. By setting unique and strong passwords, we can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access. Additionally, disabling unnecessary features or services that are not required for the device’s intended purpose can further minimize the attack surface, making it harder for potential attackers to exploit vulnerabilities.

Regular Software Updates: Keeping the firmware and software of AI and IoT devices up to date is crucial for maintaining a secure environment. Manufacturers frequently release updates that address newly discovered vulnerabilities and provide patches to fix them. By regularly updating the software, we can ensure that our devices have the latest security enhancements and are protected against known threats. Ignoring software updates can leave devices exposed to potential attacks, as attackers often target outdated software with known vulnerabilities.

Encryption: Implementing strong encryption protocols for data transmitted between devices and cloud services is a fundamental aspect of securing AI and IoT devices. Encryption ensures that even if an attacker intercepts the data, they won’t be able to decipher its contents without the encryption key. By using robust encryption algorithms and adhering to industry best practices, we can safeguard sensitive information and prevent unauthorized access.

Network Segmentation: Separating AI and IoT devices into different network segments is an effective strategy to enhance security. By isolating these devices from other critical systems and segregating them based on their functionality, we can limit the potential impact of a compromised device. If one device is compromised, the attacker’s access and lateral movement within the network will be restricted, reducing the overall risk to the organization.

User Awareness and Education: Educating users about potential risks and best practices is vital in the fight against cyber threats. Users need to be aware of common security pitfalls, such as phishing attacks, which can trick them into revealing sensitive information. Additionally, users should understand the importance of granting permissions only to trusted apps or devices and regularly reviewing and revoking unnecessary permissions. By fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness, we can empower users to make informed decisions and actively contribute to the security of AI and IoT devices.

Building Resilient Networks: Cybersecurity Measures for AI and IoT

Creating resilient networks is crucial for safeguarding AI and IoT devices from potential cyber threats. In today’s interconnected world, where technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace, it is essential to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals. Here are some key cybersecurity measures to consider:

Firewalls: Implementing firewalls can help detect and block unauthorized access attempts, reducing the risk of data breaches. Firewalls act as a protective barrier between your internal network and the vast, unpredictable world of the internet. They analyze incoming and outgoing network traffic, filtering out potentially harmful packets and ensuring that only legitimate data flows through.
Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS): Deploying IDS and IPS can help identify and mitigate potential attacks in real-time. IDS monitors network traffic, looking for suspicious activity or known attack patterns. When it detects something amiss, it alerts network administrators, enabling them to take immediate action. IPS, on the other hand, not only detects threats but also actively blocks them, preventing malicious traffic from entering your network.
Access Control: Implementing role-based access control (RBAC) and strong authentication mechanisms can restrict unauthorized access to sensitive data and device functionalities. RBAC ensures that users are granted access privileges based on their roles within the organization. This means that employees only have access to the resources they need to perform their jobs, minimizing the risk of accidental or intentional data breaches. Strong authentication mechanisms, such as multi-factor authentication, add an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide multiple pieces of evidence to prove their identity.
Monitoring and Analytics: Utilizing advanced analytics and monitoring tools can help identify anomalous behavior patterns and potential security threats. By continuously monitoring network traffic, these tools can detect deviations from normal behavior, such as unusual data transfers or suspicious login attempts. They can also analyze large volumes of data to identify trends and patterns that may indicate a potential security breach. With real-time alerts and comprehensive reporting, organizations can respond swiftly to emerging threats and proactively strengthen their cybersecurity defenses.

By implementing these cybersecurity measures, organizations can enhance the resilience of their networks and protect against potential AI and IoT-related cyber attacks. However, it is important to note that cybersecurity is an ongoing process. As technology evolves and cyber threats become more sophisticated, organizations must remain vigilant, regularly updating their security measures and staying informed about the latest trends and best practices in the field. With a proactive and comprehensive approach to cybersecurity, we can build a safer and more secure digital future.

But what about the human element in cybersecurity? While technological measures are crucial, it is equally important to educate and train employees about cybersecurity best practices. Human error remains one of the leading causes of security breaches. By raising awareness about the risks and providing regular training sessions, organizations can empower their employees to become the first line of defense against cyber threats. Additionally, fostering a culture of cybersecurity within the organization can encourage employees to report suspicious activities and share their knowledge, further strengthening the overall security posture.

AI and IoT: The Future of Cybersecurity

As AI and IoT technologies continue to evolve, they also hold immense potential in bolstering cybersecurity defenses. Machine learning algorithms can be employed to detect and respond to threats in real-time, while IoT devices can be harnessed to gather valuable data for cybersecurity analytics.

Additionally, AI-powered tools can assist cybersecurity professionals in analyzing vast amounts of data and identifying patterns indicative of malicious activities. This proactive approach can help organizations stay ahead of cyber threats and respond more effectively to security incidents.

In conclusion, as we embrace the benefits of AI and IoT in our daily lives, we must also recognize the need for robust cybersecurity measures. By understanding the vulnerabilities, implementing best practices, and building resilient networks, we can navigate the cybersecurity challenges of the age of AI and IoT. Embracing the potential of AI and IoT in cybersecurity can unlock new opportunities for safeguarding our increasingly interconnected digital world.

What is the European Digital Identity and Why is it Important?

In today’s increasingly digital world, the concept of identity has taken on new dimensions. With the rise of online transactions, digital services, and the sharing of personal information, individuals and organizations alike need a secure and reliable means of identifying themselves in the virtual space. Enter the European Digital Identity, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at revolutionizing the way we establish and authenticate our digital selves.

Understanding the Concept of European Digital Identity

At its core, the European Digital Identity refers to a secure and interoperable system that allows citizens, businesses, and public administrations within the European Union (EU) to verify and authenticate their online identities. It is designed to provide users with a unique digital identity that can be used across different platforms, services, and countries, eliminating the need for multiple usernames and passwords.

The concept of European Digital Identity has gained significant traction in recent years due to the increasing digitization of services and the need for secure and convenient online interactions. With the proliferation of digital platforms and the rise of cyber threats, there is a growing demand for a robust and user-centric digital identity solution that can ensure trust, privacy, and security.

Definition of European Digital Identity

The European Digital Identity can be defined as a user-centric, privacy-preserving, and user-controlled digital ID that enables individuals and organizations to access digital services with ease and confidence while safeguarding their personal data. It aims to promote trust and security in the digital space, empowering users with greater control over their online interactions.

With the European Digital Identity, users have the ability to manage their digital identities, granting or revoking access to their personal information as they see fit. This user-controlled approach ensures that individuals have full control over their data and can make informed decisions about sharing it with service providers.

Key Components of the European Digital Identity

The European Digital Identity comprises various components that work together to create a seamless and secure user experience. These include:

A unique identifier: Each user is assigned a unique digital identity number that serves as their online identifier. This identifier is securely stored and can be used across different platforms and services, eliminating the need for multiple usernames and passwords.
Authentication mechanisms: Robust authentication methods, such as biometrics or secure tokens, ensure the validity and integrity of users’ digital identities. These mechanisms provide an additional layer of security, making it difficult for unauthorized individuals to impersonate users or gain access to their accounts.
Interoperability framework: The system is designed to work across different platforms, services, and countries, enabling users to use their digital identity seamlessly. This interoperability ensures that users can access a wide range of services and platforms without the need to create separate accounts or go through complex registration processes.
Secure storage: Users’ personal data and digital identities are securely stored and protected against unauthorized access or misuse. The European Digital Identity system employs robust encryption and security measures to safeguard user information, ensuring that it remains confidential and protected.
Privacy-preserving features: The European Digital Identity prioritizes privacy and data protection. It incorporates privacy-enhancing technologies and principles, such as data minimization and user consent, to ensure that users have control over their personal information and can choose how it is shared and used.

By combining these key components, the European Digital Identity aims to provide a comprehensive and user-friendly solution for digital identity management. It offers individuals and organizations a secure and convenient way to access online services, while also promoting trust, privacy, and security in the digital ecosystem.

The Importance of European Digital Identity

The European Digital Identity holds immense importance in today’s digital landscape, offering numerous benefits to individuals, businesses, and governments. Let’s explore some of its key advantages in more detail.

Enhancing Security and Privacy

One of the fundamental goals of the European Digital Identity is to enhance security and privacy in the digital realm. By providing a robust and standardized means of verifying online identities, the system reduces the risk of identity theft, fraud, and unauthorized access. Additionally, the user-centric nature of the European Digital Identity grants individuals greater control over their personal data, allowing them to choose what information they share and with whom.

In an increasingly interconnected world, where cyber threats are constantly evolving, having a secure and reliable digital identity is crucial. The European Digital Identity addresses this need by implementing state-of-the-art encryption and authentication mechanisms, ensuring that individuals’ online activities are protected from malicious actors. This not only safeguards sensitive information but also instills trust and confidence in digital transactions.

Furthermore, the European Digital Identity framework incorporates privacy-by-design principles, prioritizing the protection of individuals’ privacy rights. By adhering to strict data protection regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the system ensures that individuals’ personal information is handled responsibly and transparently. This commitment to privacy empowers individuals to participate in the digital economy with peace of mind, knowing that their data is being handled in a secure and ethical manner.

Facilitating Seamless Transactions

Another critical aspect of the European Digital Identity is its ability to facilitate seamless online transactions. With a unified digital identity, users can easily access various digital services, such as e-commerce platforms, online banking, or government portals, without the need for multiple registrations or cumbersome authentication processes. This streamlining of transactions not only saves time but also promotes efficiency and convenience in today’s fast-paced digital economy.

Imagine a scenario where individuals can effortlessly log in to their favorite online shopping websites, securely make purchases, and have their orders delivered to their doorstep, all with just a few clicks. The European Digital Identity makes this vision a reality by eliminating the need for multiple usernames and passwords, reducing the friction associated with online transactions. This seamless experience not only benefits individuals but also drives economic growth by encouraging increased online engagement and consumer confidence.

Moreover, the European Digital Identity opens up new opportunities for businesses by enabling them to offer personalized and tailored services to their customers. With access to verified customer information, businesses can provide targeted recommendations, personalized offers, and improved customer support, enhancing the overall customer experience. This level of customization not only strengthens customer loyalty but also drives business growth in an increasingly competitive digital marketplace.

In conclusion, the European Digital Identity plays a vital role in enhancing security, privacy, and convenience in the digital realm. By providing individuals with a secure and user-centric means of verifying their online identities, the system fosters trust, promotes efficiency, and unlocks new possibilities for individuals, businesses, and governments alike. Embracing the European Digital Identity is not just a technological advancement, but a step towards a more inclusive, secure, and interconnected digital future.

The Role of European Digital Identity in the Digital Economy

The European Digital Identity has a significant role to play in fostering the growth and development of the digital economy within the European Union. Let’s explore two key areas where its impact is particularly pronounced.

Boosting E-commerce

In the realm of e-commerce, trust and security are paramount. The European Digital Identity offers consumers a safe and reliable means of verifying themselves when making online purchases. By instilling confidence in consumers, the digital identity framework aims to boost e-commerce activities within the EU, driving economic growth and fostering cross-border trade.

Promoting Digital Services

The European Digital Identity also plays a crucial role in promoting the adoption and usage of digital services within the EU. By providing a standardized and user-friendly authentication mechanism, the system eliminates one of the key barriers to entry for individuals and businesses seeking to utilize digital services. This, in turn, encourages innovation, drives digital inclusion, and contributes to the overall digital transformation of the European society and economy.

Challenges and Solutions in Implementing European Digital Identity

While the European Digital Identity holds immense promise, its implementation is not without challenges. Let’s explore some of the key hurdles that need to be overcome and the potential solutions.

Overcoming Technical Hurdles

One of the critical challenges in implementing the European Digital Identity is ensuring interoperability and compatibility across different platforms and systems. This requires the development of robust technical standards and protocols that facilitate seamless integration and data exchange. Collaboration among stakeholders and the adoption of open standards can help overcome these technical hurdles and create a truly interoperable digital identity ecosystem.

Addressing Legal and Regulatory Issues

The implementation of the European Digital Identity also necessitates addressing legal and regulatory issues surrounding data protection, privacy, and cross-border data flows. Harmonizing national laws and regulations, ensuring compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and fostering international cooperation are crucial steps in overcoming these legal and regulatory challenges.

The Future of European Digital Identity

Looking ahead, the European Digital Identity is poised to shape the future of digital identity not only within the EU but also globally. Let’s explore some potential developments and innovations that could further advance the digital identity landscape.

Potential Developments and Innovations

As technology continues to evolve, so too will the European Digital Identity. We can expect to see developments in areas such as biometrics, blockchain, and decentralized identity, all of which have the potential to enhance the security, privacy, and usability of digital identities. Additionally, advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning could lead to more robust and intelligent authentication mechanisms, further strengthening the European Digital Identity ecosystem.

Impact on Global Digital Identity Landscape

The success and adoption of the European Digital Identity could have a ripple effect throughout the global digital identity landscape. By showcasing the benefits of a user-centric and privacy-preserving digital identity framework, the EU’s initiative could inspire other regions and countries to develop similar systems. This, in turn, would contribute to a more secure, trusted, and interconnected global digital ecosystem.

In conclusion, the European Digital Identity represents a significant leap forward in the way we establish and authenticate our digital identities. With its focus on security, privacy, and interoperability, the system holds immense promise in enhancing trust, promoting convenience, and driving digital transformation within the European Union. By addressing the challenges and embracing future developments, the European Digital Identity has the potential to revolutionize the global digital identity landscape, paving the way for a safer and more connected digital future.

“your phone is spying?” A story about Big Data, Privacy and Urban legends

I have to start with the truth behind an urban legend. Are our smart-phones spying on us?
The simplest thing is to report a very well written article Hollie McKay on Foxnews:

Almost everyone has an eerie a tale to tell.
Perhaps you’ve been talking to a friend about an island vacation, when suddenly deals for the Maldives or Hawaii pop up on your Facebook feed. Or you are talking to your co-worker about yard renovations when advertisements for lawnmowers litter your Twitter, or maybe you were talking about why you stopped drinking and a random sponsored article about the growing trend of “elective sobriety” is suddenly in front of your eyes.
Creepy or coincidence? Was your smartphone eavesdropping on your conversation?
“It’s easy to feel like our phone is spying on us. It is actually spying on us, but it is not eavesdropping,” Alex Hamerstone, Government, Risk and Compliance practice lead at information technology security firm, TrustedSec, told Fox News via email. “The reason why we see ads pop up that seem to be correlated to the exact thing we were just talking about is because technology and marketing companies gather extensive amounts of personal and behavioral data on us, but it’s not from eavesdropping — it’s from surfing the web, shopping, posting on social media, and other things people do online.”
Hamerstone stressed that there are simply huge databases about individuals and also about larger behavioral patterns that play with our psyche.
“For instance, people who search online for mortgages and also for vacations tend to have a baby within nine months. So if an advertiser sees the first two indicators pop up for a particular user, they will start delivering them ads on baby products. This has nothing to do with eavesdropping, but from regular data collection of online activity and correlating that with established behavioral patterns,” he continued.
And the reasons that ads appear so on-the-mark and targeted are two-fold. First, it is psychological that you focus on the super-targeted ads – similar to how a fortune teller works, they will make 10 statements, and one is correct, and that is the only one we remember. Similarly, if you mention to your friend that you have been wanting a bike, and a bike and suddenly pops up, you may be startled by the bike ad and think your phone is listening, but ignore that fact that you also got served 20 ads for something you would never buy or even consider, Hamerstone observed.
“(But) they know so much about us that they can target us with highly specific ads, which are often incredibly accurate, and sometimes they even seem to be predictive. They may know your browsing history; they also can correlate stuff. For example, they may have a bunch of data that shows that people who visit a vacation website may also want to diet or get in shape. So you visit a vacation web site, and then a day later you get an ad for diet pills,” he pointed out. “If you are discussing dieting around your phone, you may assume that your phone was listening, but in reality, the targeted ad came from other behavioral evidence that was collected about you online.”
According to Russell Holly, technology analyst, it comes down to the digital footprint you leave and “it’s not uncommon to assume the worst when you stumble upon a coincidence you can’t explain.”
“The scary truth is Facebook and others don’t need access to our microphones to figure out what we want to see ads on. We give these companies an insane amount of information when we check in to locations and share photos and fill out quizzes to figure out which ‘Game of Thrones’ family we’re a part of,” he wrote, via email. “All of that information makes it very easy for these companies to guess we’d be interested in specific categories of products, and that makes coincidences like the one you’re describing very easy to come across regularly. But it really is just a series of lucky guesses from a tremendous wealth of information.”
So while targeted advertising follows you around the internet via cookies and draws conclusions based on your interests and likely future purchases, Holly also underscored that your microphone is often to set to “on” for some widely used apps.
“Although corporate user agreements don’t allow them to directly sell that voice data to digital advertisers, they are allowed to sell demographic information which they glean by the consumer’s in-app purchases, links clicked, but also potentially via conversations that are picked up,” explained Adam Levin, founder of identity protection and data risk services firm, CyberScout. “This isn’t something companies are admitting to – listening to users – but it is a definite possibility.”
It’s what he calls the “surveillance economy” – apps and virtual assistants like Siri, Cortana, and Alexa are designed to make life easier – but with the cost of surrendering much of our personal lives to the corporate behemoth.
“Many apps use automated content recognition software, which takes bits and pieces of users’ conversations and compares them with audio they pick up from television, streaming, etc., to make matches and deliver targeted ads to a consumer’s cell phone,” he noted.
But there are steps that all technology users can take to minimize those creepy vibes.
“The easiest way to avoid this is to stop giving online companies more of your information. Before you take an online quiz, try to figure out which company was behind that quiz,” Holly cautioned. “Don’t open emails from places you’ve never heard of. Use online tools like Ghostery to see how much information the sites you regularly visit are tracking you across the internet. The important thing isn’t the fact that data is being collected, it is how that data is used to create a digital image of you as a person and who has the ability to use that information to push things on you.”
After all, smartly snooping phones and technology is the reality that isn’t going away anytime soon.
“With billions of IoT [Internet of Things] and smart devices, artificial intelligence, and voice-controlled home devices, and the decline of print media which has increased the need for data to serve digital ads, it is not only growing but is the new norm,” Levin added. “Check your phone’s privacy settings; disable your microphone for apps not in use; and be mindful about what you’re giving up in terms of your privacy when you opt for the convenience of an app.”

The issue of Privacy is never sufficiently taken into consideration because it is difficult to understand what can be achieved with Big Data, with the data and information that we voluntarily leave constantly online.
For insiders, however, working with big data is a fascinating subject, technical and creative at the same time.