- The growing shift to online platforms increases the amount and value of personal data stored digitally.
- Storing data on third-party servers often means loss of user control over access and management of that data.
- Companies may use personal data for advertising or training Artificial Intelligence, as stated in user agreements.
- The Internet Computer Protocol (ICP) offers a decentralized method for users to retain control without running their own infrastructure.
- ICP expands on principles similar to Bitcoin, enabling decentralized management of code and data and supporting data sovereignty.
The rise in digital communications and online activity has led to a rapid increase in the amount and value of data stored online. As users move more of their personal information—including messages, identity details, and online activities—onto digital platforms, this data is often held on computers managed by others, potentially limiting user control.
When data resides on third-party infrastructure, those providers decide how the data is stored and accessed. This scenario allows companies controlling the servers to set terms for data use and access. As a result, users might not only lose access to their own information but may also have limited influence over how it is shared or monetized.
According to Björn Tackmann, Head of Research at the DFINITY Foundation, some companies are using customer data for targeted advertising and to train artificial intelligence, a practice disclosed in updated end-user agreements. “Many companies now also claim the right to train their AI on your data,” Tackmann said.
Setting up and running personal infrastructure to manage data independently requires significant time and expertise. The Internet Computer Protocol (ICP) addresses this challenge by enabling decentralized operation. With ICP, users can store both software code and data while maintaining direct ownership, without the demands of managing physical servers themselves.
ICP is built on decentralized network technology, expanding concepts originally developed for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. After years of research and development, the protocol serves as a comprehensive computing platform, allowing users to host code and data securely and independently. Tackmann described this approach as providing “a sovereign cloud, a true World Computer.”
This article is based on a World Computer Tech Talk by Björn Tackmann, Head of Research at the DFINITY Foundation. The original video can be found here.
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