VU – UTNews & agendaNewsNavigating privacy: secure collection of trajectory data

Navigating privacy: secure collection of trajectory data

Trajectory data can track movements and locations of individuals. They are a rich source of information and have huge potential for socially useful applications. For example, to understand children's development and inclusion in their school environment. However, trajectory data collection is a sensitive process given the potential for bias, data misuse and privacy risks. To address these concerns, researchers from the Smart Societies coalition launched the Navigating Privacy project. 

The researchers' aim is to assess techniques for anonymising trajectory data. They do this by ranking and evaluating data collection methods. With the insights and recommendations gained, the researchers contribute to ensuring privacy and inclusion when collecting and analysing trajectory data.

This is especially crucial for minority groups. For example, when it comes to vulnerable children with special needs, in the context of studying inclusive school environments. By ensuring a procedure that protects privacy as well as inclusiveness, all social groups can benefit from scientific research using trajectory data. In doing so, the risks of data bias and misuse are reduced.

The project is part of the 'Enhancing Social Inclusion' research theme. The research team includes dr. Emma Beauxis-Aussalet and dr. Yung-Ting Tsou on behalf of the VU and dr. Dennis Reidsma and prof. Carolien Rieffe on behalf of the UT.   

Are you interested in the project and/or the position of research assistant within the team? Please contact dr. Emma Beauxis-Aussalet, e.m.a.l.beauxisaussalet@vu.nl.