by Vagelis Papakonstantinou & Paul de Hert

ABSTRACT

Big data analytics has been defined by the EPDS, under a common denominator approach, as the practice of combining huge volumes of diversely sourced information and analysing them, using more sophisticated algorithms to inform decisions. Notwithstanding the discussion whether personal data constitute a new asset for companies, the fact remains that organisations find new value through constant re-processing of personal data either already in their possession or coming from different third parties. Indeed, over the past few years, big data analytics have forcefully entered the mainstream. However, despite public attention and high volumes of expert analyses, that customarily focus on challenges to personal data protection by similar operations, the vast majority of approaches remains purely theoretical; Aim of this Working Paper is to map and analyse a specific field, focusing on what is actually taking place and what big data analytics operations do take place within telecommunications organisations today.

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