The advantages of big data deployments must not overlook the users’ privacy and data protection concerns, the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) has warned.
The European Data Protection supervisor Peter Hustinx said that such issues have not been given the required importance.
"The evolution of big data has exposed gaps in EU competition, consumer protection and data protection policies that do not seem to have kept up with this development," Hustinx added.
"Personal information has become a form of currency to pay for so-called ‘free’ online services and is a valuable intangible asset for an increasing number of companies doing business in the EU. This requires closer interaction between different regulators."
"The collection and control of massive amounts of personal data are a source of market power for the biggest players in the global market. It is essential that synergies in the enforcement of rules controlling anti-competitive practices, mergers, the marketing of so-called ‘free’ on-line services and the legitimacy of data processing are explored.
"This will help to enforce competition and consumer rules more effectively and also stimulate the market for privacy-enhancing services.market for internet services."
Hustinx also pressed that the technology sector has not been striving to build up tools to offer better security and privacy concerning data collection, regardless of its benefits in return.
In addition, the report urged that there has been only a small discussion between policy makers and experts in these fields as sectors ranging from transport to health, banking to energy, are looking to make the most of the potential of big data, which also comprises massive personal data.
