My Data is Mine - Users' Handling of Personal Data in Everyday Life

Abstract

Abstract: This experimental study is about investigating users’ handling of personal data and their awareness of data collection. A deception experiment was designed to let the subjects believe that they are participating in a decision-making experiment. Only after the experiment, they were informed about the actual aim of examining their behaviour towards their personal data. Before the deception experiment either a printed or a digital version of the terms and conditions was handed out. The reading time and the willingness to accept the terms and conditions was measured in order to find significant differences. For the deception, a program was implemented which simultaneously presents two terms including sensitive data like religious and political orientation. The subject should choose the favoured term. Afterwards, subjects were asked whether and to what extent they agree to hand out their collected data to third parties in exchange for financial gain. After the experiment the participants were asked about their usual behaviour regarding their personal data.