Advances in information technology and its implication on privacy

Abstract

Over the past three decades, computers and information technology in general have experienced an enormous growth and development. This amazing new technology is profoundly affecting and changing the functioning of societies worldwide. The issue of personal privacy and what is perceived to be an increasing invasion of it by advances in technologies have raised the publics concerns. Most individuals regard privacy as a basic right, but the problem is that people have different interpretations and thresholds on what they regard as private, and when/where that privacy is jeopardized or invaded. In this paper we will highlight existing and emerging technologies and their potential implication on privacy.