A framework for analysis of quotidian exposure in an instrumented world

For a variety of often reasonable motives such as increased security or increased profit, individuals and organizations fill our world with sensors and data collection systems that sample and track our day-to-day activities. Some people freely invite tracking into their lives. Others are enticed by offers of discounts or even free products and services. But frequently our lives are quietly sampled, unbeknownst to us, by those with the power to do so. As a result, individuals face a rapidly declining freedom to lead a private life. While significant sampling and tracking occur online, this study focuses on the convergence of sensor systems in the physical world. It explores the privacy implications of sensors found on our person, in our home, in our communities, and while travelling. This paper provides the following contributions: a model of human-targeted sensor systems and a framework for sensor categorization, privacy threat analysis, and countermeasure development. It concludes with a detailed case study that employs the framework to analyze the quotidian exposure encountered in an ordinary citizen's life.