What about privacy rights of employees and prospective employees? The scope and type of personal data collected by businesses continues to grow, as does the ease of gathering and storing the data. A small thumb drive containing all of a business’ trade secrets and employee information can be easily removed and transported in a person’s pocket. New technology allows for the tracking of consumer preferences and information, including their exact location, making it possible to do real- time targeted marketing. The aggregation of consumer data by data brokers is increasingly being monetized and used by businesses as even more detailed information about consumers becomes available. Big data is viewed as both a savior in medical research and a menace to privacy. The so-called “Internet of Things” allows for household appliances and cars to collect and share personal consumer data like never before. High profile data breach incidents exemplify the need for businesses to take a serious look at data privacy and security issues and how they fit within their business operations. Potential breaches are not simply the result of lax computer systems and poor data security. A business can be just as liable for a data breach by leaving job applications in a public dumpster or mailing medical information to the wrong patient due to a printing error. Artificial Intelligence (AI is increasingly being used in businesses and creates potential privacy and data security issues. What makes this technology different? While AI can be a powerful and beneficial business tool it is important to recognize the potential risks associated with AI. Privacy and ethical risks include misuse of personal data, biased algorithms, and discrimination when using AI. AI laws and regulations are being considered worldwide along with voluntary guidelines and standards.
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