Technology and Privacy, Internet Effects on Privacy

Abstract

Technology is changing the world we are living in, but we should be concerned about our privacy for every new technological development. Rapid developments and globalization have brought new challenges towards personal data protection. Technology affects on every aspect of our life. So whenever we navigate in internet, make a phone call or use different technology tools our privacy becomes vulnerable because technological developments have not only positive sides but also negative ones. These activities, effecting directly or indirectly, influence and expose privacy related aspects of the life of persons. Scientific and technological progress, especially when it is related to information processing and communication of personal data cannot stand independent from the right and the standards that regulate the private life. The sector with the greatest impact on the lives of people is the internet and consequently this is a sector that requires a stronger legal regulation. The Protection of personal data is recognized as an autonomous fundamental right in the legally binding EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, but the technology develops and that is what the legislation should do too. This paper will focus on the coverage of the current situation in this domain and will aim at providing answers to some key questions such as: Which are the main challenges resulting from the rapid growth of technology? What should be the ratio privacy - technology?

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2013.v4n9p279