An historical example of how (even well intentioned) data collection can lead to negative consequences

I was having a chat with the lovely Monika (aka Mum On The Brink) about the risks of blanket data collection. I said that, in many cases, the purpose of collecting data is harmless or even well intentioned (for instance, save time, show information that is relevant…), but that those same datasets could then be used in a different context, or collated with other datasets, and generate unintended, unanticipated and very negative consequences. And, then, Monika told me the story of the Norwegian census: how data that were initially collected for a perfectly harmless goal turned out to be instrumental for persecution and crime.

Monika is a former knowledge manager, now a professional blogger and social media consultant. At mumonthebrink.com Monika writes about family travel and technology. She is also very interested in sustainable living, and is planning a fantastic sailing trip with her family. You can find her on Twitter, Instagram and other popular social media channels.