Are businesses using your personal information?
Ethical concerns about the use of personal data, particularly in an intensive information society that we live in today, have been increasing. In real terms security and privacy are at the core of information and communications technology advancements. By altering the landscape of services and applications, these achievements affect the quality of life and fundamental rights of European citizens. The EU-funded Ethical project is enhancing the debate on ethical implications of data collection, use and retention in medical and biometric applications. The project is supporting the creation of a roadmap towards a secure environment without compromising human rights. It is encouraging critical reflection on the deep relationships between knowledge and democracy. The Ethical project is also coordinating international debate in many areas such as data collection, code of conduct for researchers and requirements for medical data sharing. The scientific work carried out by the consortium of research partners is reflected in the detailed report on the implications of data collection, use and retention. The ethics of data sharing, for example, between government and industry have been examined and numerous examples have been gathered. This has resulted in a proposed list of checks and balances that help all parties adhere to privacy-related laws. It has also resulted in best practices for government-industry collaboration and recommendations for data sharing between both sides. A study on ethical requirements for international biometric and medical data sharing has also been completed. It contains existing laws and guidelines on data sharing, principles for ethical data sharing, and ongoing debates. Benchmarks for privacy recognition and international privacy principles have also been proposed. Once adopted, these findings and recommendations will ensure that Europeans can feel confident their fundamental rights concerning the treatment of data are respected. The findings will also balance medical and security priorities with the needs of citizens.
