Tom Steinberg proposes a new concept: Personal Data Representatives (PDRs). These are professionals who will manage and protect individuals’ personal data, similar to how lawyers represent clients in legal matters. PDRs will negotiate with companies on behalf of individuals, ensuring their data is used in a way that benefits them. They will also monitor how data is used and take action if it’s misused.
Steinberg suggests PDRs could be funded by a small tax on data brokers, who profit from personal data. He argues that this would be fairer, as the current system allows companies to profit from data without individuals’ knowledge or consent.
The idea of PDRs addresses the imbalance of power between individuals and companies in the digital age. It also has potential to create new jobs, as there would be a need for a large number of PDRs. Steinberg acknowledges there are challenges to implementing this idea, such as establishing regulations and training PDRs. Nevertheless, he believes it’s a necessary step towards a fairer digital economy.
Go to source article: https://medium.com/@TomSteinberg/personal-data-representatives-an-idea-d2274d1af69b