Anonymity

Category: When Analytics Works

It is arguable that anonymity is a virtue, however, many applications of analytics reduce or eliminate anonymity. For example, it is widely argued that "anonymity helps support the fundamental rights of privacy and freedom of expression." (Bodle, 2013) And it is valued. One report argues, for example, that "86% of internet users have taken steps online to remove or mask their digital footprints" and "55% of internet users have taken steps to avoid observation by specific people." (Raine, et.al., 2013)

Analytics impacts on anonymity in two ways. First, it makes it difficult to be anonymous. According to a Pew survey, "59% of internet users do not believe it is possible to be completely anonymous online, while 37% of them believe it is possible." This is partially because of spying and tracking, and partially because data about individuals can be cross-referenced. "When Facebook acts as a third-party tracker, they can know your identity as long as you've created a Facebook account and are logged in — and perhaps even if you aren't logged in. It is also possible for a tracker to de-anonymize a user by algorithmically exploiting the statistical similarity between their browsing history and their social media profile" (Princiya, 2018).

Second, analytics arguably creates a social need to eliminate anonymity. As Bodle argues, "A consensus is growing among governments and entertainment companies about the mutual benefits of tracking people online." Hence, provisions against anonymity, he argues, are being built into things like trade agreements and contracts.

All of that said, anonymity is not unambiguously good. For example, John Suler describes the 'Online Disinhibition Effect', which includes "dissociative anonymity" as a factor (Suler, 2004), and while it helps students feel safe and secure and helps them 'come out of their shell', it has also attributed as factor in online bullying and abuse (O'Leary and Murphy, 2019).

Examples and Articles

Report: The Right to Online Anonymity
"Governments around the world regularly attempt to restrict anonymity and the use of encryption tools for various reasons, from enabling unlawful activities to facilitating terrorism.The protection of anonymity and encryption in international law is therefore more important than ever." Direct Link

Tor Browser
Anonymity software that can be used by journalists, activists, law enforcement professionals, whistleblowers etc. Can also be used for criminal and other high risk activities Direct Link

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