Will algorithms predict your future?

A report from Cardiff University reveals the extent to which public service provision is now being influenced by data analytics. The study, Data Scores as Governance , represents the culmination of a year-long research project compiled by the School of Journalism, Media and Culture's Data Justice Lab. Researchers studied data systems of government services across the UK to assess the extent to which decisions about individuals are being made by data scores and algorithms. They also conducted interviews with employees working in the field to find out how information gathered about people they come into contact with is used and distributed. Their findings indicate that data collection and data sharing across local councils and government departments is now widespread. Data Justice Lab Co-Director Dr Arne Hintz said: "We've become accustomed to our data being used online to decide which adverts or social media posts we should see. But for the first time, our research shows the extent to which our data is being used to decide how we are treated by public services.