Amid concerns that the hugely popular Facebook app FaceApp might pose a concern for data privacy, the University of Guelph has an expert who can comment.

Prof. Rozita Dara with the School of Computer Science specializes in online privacy management as well as security-enhancing solutions. She is also focused on data governance in the so-called “Internet of Things” and the ethical and social implications of artificial intelligence and automated systems.

Dara’s research has found that many Canadians are not aware of how much personal information they hand over to Facebook, Instagram YouTube and other social media sites, and how that information is used.

Speaking recently with GlobalNews.ca, she said it’s hard for app users to know how the app company will use their data or where it will eventually end up.

“Your interests, your political views, your personal views… you never know where your data will end up in five or 10 years from now,” she said.

Dara is available for interviews.

Contact:

Prof. Rozita Dara
drozita@uoguelph.ca