We can thank the ubiquity of smart devices, following the example set by social media platforms, coupled with the relatively low cost of building the networks that run them. It’s the perfect system — one where collecting data gets cheaper over time while the value of owning it rises exponentially. Collecting and storing this data isn’t an inherently nefarious practice. It’s used to power smart cities, train artificial intelligence, and even drive changes in policy based on public sentiment. C...

We can thank the ubiquity of smart devices, following the example set by social media platforms, coupled with the relatively low cost of building the networks that run them. It’s the perfect system — one where collecting data gets cheaper over time while the value of owning it rises exponentially. Collecting and storing this data isn’t an inherently nefarious practice. It’s used to power smart cities, train artificial intelligence, and even drive changes in policy based on public sentiment. C...