
[ad_1]
Web3 is a term that refers to the next generation of the Internet, where decentralized applications (DApps) run on peer-to-peer networks, without intermediaries or centralized servers. Web3 promises to empower users with greater control, privacy and ownership over their own data and digital assets. However, Web3 also introduces new challenges and risks to data harvesting, which is the practice of collecting and analyzing large amounts of data from users, often without their consent or awareness.
Data harvesting can have various purposes and effects, such as improving user experience, providing personalized recommendations, targeting advertisements, influencing behavior, manipulating opinions, or even stealing identities. Data harvesting can be performed by various actors, such as dApp developers, platform providers, network validators, third-party services, or malicious hackers. Data harvesting can include various types of data, such as personal information, transaction history, browsing activity, location data, social network data, or biometric data.
In Web3, data storage can be more difficult or easier than in Web2 depending on context and design choices. On the one hand, Web3 can make data collection more difficult by enabling users to encrypt their data, control their access rights, verify their identity, or opt-out of data collection. On the other hand, Web3 may facilitate data collection by creating more data sources, displaying more data on public ledgers, enabling more data analysis tools, or encouraging more data sharing.
Techadia Mini-MBA (September 11 – December 2, 2023) Opens registration for a new edition. The cost is N90,000 or $170 if you register by September 2, 2023. Register HeRI
Techadia AI in Business Masterclass Registration opens here.
Join Techadia Capital Syndicate and co-iInvest in Africa’s best startups Here, The next cycle will start from October 2, 2023.
However, recent developments have raised some concerns about how Web3 platforms handle user data. Some DApps, such as social media, gaming, or e-commerce platforms, require users to provide personal information such as email, phone number, or identity verification in order to access their services or features. This data is often stored on centralized servers or third-party providers, which can be vulnerable to hacking, censorship, or abuse.
In addition, some Web3 platforms use analytics tools or trackers to collect user behavior data, such as browsing history, preferences, interactions or transactions. This data is used to improve the user experience, optimize performance or provide personalized recommendations. However, this data may also be shared with advertisers, marketers or other third parties, without the user’s consent or knowledge.
These practices contradict Web3’s core principles, which aim to protect user privacy and sovereignty. Users should have the right to choose what data they want to share, with whom and for what purposes. Users should have the right to access, delete or modify their data at any time. Users should not sacrifice their privacy or security for convenience or functionality.
Therefore, Web3 platforms need to adopt more transparent and ethical data practices that respect user rights and preferences. Web3 platforms must use encryption, zero-knowledge proofs, or other cryptographic techniques to ensure that user data is secure and private. The Web3 platform should also use decentralized storage solutions such as IPFS or Filecoin to store user data on a distributed network that is flexible and censorship-resistant.
Web3 platforms must also provide clear and easy-to-understand privacy policies that inform users about what data they collect, how they use it, and how they protect it. The Web3 Platform must allow users to opt-in or opt-out of data collection or sharing at any time. By doing so, Web3 platforms can build trust and loyalty with their users and promote a more open and inclusive Internet that respects user agency and autonomy.
Some examples of web3 platforms that are trying to implement these best practices:
- Unstoppable Domains: A platform that allows users to create and manage decentralized websites and domains that are censorship-resistant and self-sovereign.
- Brave: A browser that blocks ads and trackers by default and rewards users with cryptocurrency for viewing privacy-respecting ads.
- Audacious: A music streaming service that connects artists directly with fans and allows them to monetize their work without intermediaries.
- OpenSea: A marketplace for digital collectibles and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) that enables users to create, buy, sell and trade unique digital assets.
- Decentraland: A virtual reality platform that lets users create and explore immersive 3D worlds that are owned and governed by the community.
Therefore, data harvesting in Web3 is a complex and dynamic phenomenon that requires careful consideration and regulation. Users should be aware of the potential benefits and risks of data harvesting in Web3 and exercise their rights and responsibilities accordingly. Developers must follow ethical principles and best practices for data collection in Web3 and respect users’ preferences and expectations. Regulators should establish clear and consistent rules and standards for data collection in the web3 and enforce them effectively and fairly.
Like this:
Loading like…
Source: www.tekedia.com
[ad_2]