Discussion Topic:It’s a given that companies should strive to keep customers’ data secure

Discussion Topic:

It's a given that companies should strive to keep customers' data secure from unauthorized use. However, in the area of data privacy, opinions are across the board. Present your thoughts and opinions on Data Privacy and Marketing.

• Is the trade off of collecting and using customer data balanced? In other words, is there equal gain in consumers giving up data and businesses collecting and using data (using within legal limits)? If yes, why do you think it’s a balanced trade off? If no, between businesses and consumers, who is the winner and who is the loser? Explain the unbalance.
• Is there a “dark side” to data collection or is this a misconception of the general public including the media? Explain why or why not.
• What are your thoughts around data use transparency? Should businesses be more transparent? Should there be more laws to enforce transparency or less legal involvement? Explain why.
• Where should marketers stand on these issues? On one hand, the more a marketer knows about a customer, the more they can do; on the other hand, is this advantageous for the consumer just as much as it is for the marketer?