Exploring the Ethical and Legal Dimensions of Data Collection : A Case Study of Meta Platform
Frichot, Emma (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025051511933
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025051511933
Tiivistelmä
As digital technology becomes more integrated into everyday life, data collection has become a standard practice for tech companies. Meta Platforms, one of the largest online ecosystems, gathers large amounts of user data to improve its services, personalize content, and support its advertising model. However, the vast amount of data collected by Meta has raised concerns about user privacy, leading to increased scrutiny from regulators and advocacy groups
This thesis investigates user perceptions and attitudes towards data collection practices of Meta Platforms, focusing on the intersection of user privacy concerns and corporate data policies. The central aim of this study is to explore how users of Meta’s platforms understand and react to data collection practices and to evaluate the alignment of these practices with user expectations.
The research is divided into two main components: a comprehensive review of existing literature on data privacy and an empirical survey conducted among Meta’s users. The theoretical back- ground provides an in-depth analysis of data collection practices, privacy theories, and user trust dynamics. It discusses the theoretical frameworks that underpin user attitudes towards data privacy and Meta’s role in data management. Additionally, the theoretical section evaluates the broader implications of data collection on user trust and satisfaction.
The empirical part of the study involves a survey designed to capture user insights regarding their awareness of data collection, their privacy concerns, and their satisfaction with Meta’s data practices. This survey was administered over a three-month period and targeted a diverse demographic to ensure a representative sample. Key research methods include quantitative data analysis and thematic interpretation of user responses, offering a detailed view of current user attitudes.
The findings reveal a complex landscape of user perceptions. While users are generally aware of data collection, there is a noticeable gap in understanding the specifics of how their data is utilized. Concerns about privacy and data management are prominent, with many users expressing a desire for greater transparency and control over their personal information. The results suggest a need for Meta to address these concerns by improving transparency and enhancing user control features.
This thesis highlights critical insights into user attitudes towards data collection and provides actionable recommendations for Meta Platforms. By focusing on increasing transparency and user control, Meta can better align its practices with user expectations and improve overall user satisfaction. This research contributes to the broader discourse on digital privacy and offers practical guidance for companies navigating the complexities of user data management.
This thesis investigates user perceptions and attitudes towards data collection practices of Meta Platforms, focusing on the intersection of user privacy concerns and corporate data policies. The central aim of this study is to explore how users of Meta’s platforms understand and react to data collection practices and to evaluate the alignment of these practices with user expectations.
The research is divided into two main components: a comprehensive review of existing literature on data privacy and an empirical survey conducted among Meta’s users. The theoretical back- ground provides an in-depth analysis of data collection practices, privacy theories, and user trust dynamics. It discusses the theoretical frameworks that underpin user attitudes towards data privacy and Meta’s role in data management. Additionally, the theoretical section evaluates the broader implications of data collection on user trust and satisfaction.
The empirical part of the study involves a survey designed to capture user insights regarding their awareness of data collection, their privacy concerns, and their satisfaction with Meta’s data practices. This survey was administered over a three-month period and targeted a diverse demographic to ensure a representative sample. Key research methods include quantitative data analysis and thematic interpretation of user responses, offering a detailed view of current user attitudes.
The findings reveal a complex landscape of user perceptions. While users are generally aware of data collection, there is a noticeable gap in understanding the specifics of how their data is utilized. Concerns about privacy and data management are prominent, with many users expressing a desire for greater transparency and control over their personal information. The results suggest a need for Meta to address these concerns by improving transparency and enhancing user control features.
This thesis highlights critical insights into user attitudes towards data collection and provides actionable recommendations for Meta Platforms. By focusing on increasing transparency and user control, Meta can better align its practices with user expectations and improve overall user satisfaction. This research contributes to the broader discourse on digital privacy and offers practical guidance for companies navigating the complexities of user data management.