Who owns my data?

What you should know: 

Who owns my data?

This learning module is closely linked to the topic "Ownership of data" from the previous sub-chapter "Challenges of the digital world". If the corresponding module has already been carried out, a brief summary of the most important statements is sufficient here. 

This serves as a basis for considering the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Only when we understand what happens to our data and what value this data can have, can we fully grasp the importance of the GDPR. 


The following topics should have been covered as a basis for considering the GDPR: 

  • First, there is the question of data ownership. The following exercises with subsequent discussion are suitable here: 
  • The participants should then be made aware of the real value of data: 
  • The company figures of e.g. Facebook can be consulted as a further impetus for discussion. The use of Facebook services is free of charge for internet users, yet the company earns several billion. This is mainly through the sale of personalised advertising. Based on the current turnover figures and the approximate number of users, an average value per user can be calculated. 
  • Why data is also valuable for companies can be worked out with the following exercise: 


Further examples and illustrations can be found in the CUMILA module

  • Chapter 2.2.7 Examples Google & Facebook - What they know about us
  • Chapter 2.2.9 Example "Cambridge Analytica": Creation of personality images
  • Chapter 2.2.10 Example "Strava"; risks with public data

Further information on this topic: 

  • Chapter 3.1 Who owns my data?


Read the relevant chapters in the module and, if necessary, work on the exercises mentioned yourself or prepare them for your lessons.