Deck 12: Technology, Organizations, and Society

Question 1

How much privacy should people expect when using a social networking site or going online for information, shopping, or other tasks?

Answer 1

When an individual uses social networking sites or visit various sites for shopping, extracting information etc. there are many associated concerns. Many companies use cookies or webpages to extract the information of customers. The data in information technology world is most important component.
Hence, people are not safe while browsing social sites. They should be cautious while visiting any suspicious page. People must not assume any kind of security because prevention is better th an cure.

Question 2

Who should be responsible for protecting Internet users' personal information? In your response, please address the appropriate role of the government, business, and individuals.

Answer 2

When the individuals visit any webpage online, their presence and information are tracked and extracted for various purposes. The users must be protected online from any kind of illegal tracking or harassment. The personal information should not be mentioned by users on unauthorized websites or pages. This information is used for various promotions. So, an individual is responsible for using this information at relevant and secured places only.
The governmen t plays a major role in taking care of an individuals' personal data. They must keep a track of everything and stop any illegal use of this data.
Lastly, the business should work authentically. The information submitted by an individual online on any website should not be sold or used in an unethical manner. It is the responsibility of business to secure the personal data of the ir customers.

Question 3

Should consumers share in the revenue generated from sales created by accessing the personal information from social networking and other Internet sites?

Answer 3

The consumers must be given an equal share in the profit from the sales of personal information.
The data in the information technology is an important component. The owners of various internet sites make money from the personal information of their users. The personal information of any consumer should be used with his/her consent. Using information illegally is unethical and unacceptable.
Thus, all those who willingly share their correct information must be given a part of total sales revenue for being supportive and informative.

Question 4

Do you believe there is a conflict between the economic interests of companies such as Facebook, MySpace, or Google, and their obligation to protect the personal information of their users? If you were an executive of one of these companies, how would you resolve that conflict?