The Ethics of Data Mining: Lessons from the Cambridge Analytica Scandal

Abstract

The Cambridge Analytica scandal of 2018 revealed how personal data of millions of Facebook users was harvested without their consent and used to influence political campaigns. This scandal has raised concerns about the ethical implications of data mining and the need for stronger regulations to protect individuals' privacy. This article examines the ethical issues surrounding data mining in the context of the Cambridge Analytica scandal. It highlights the dangers of using personal data for political purposes without explicit consent, and the implications of data mining for democracy and electoral integrity. It also discusses the ethical responsibilities of tech companies in collecting and using personal data, and the need for transparency and accountability in data mining practices. This article argues for the development of new ethical frameworks for data mining that prioritize individual privacy and human rights. It also calls for greater public awareness and education about the risks and benefits of data mining, and the need for individuals to have greater control over their personal data.