Data use versus privacy protection in public safety in smart cities

Abstract

Smart cities, data use and privacy protection: three deeply linked subjects that will be of main importance in an urbanising world. In this research, the use of big, open and geographic data in the smart city is studied, as well as the influence of European and Dutch privacy protection directives and regulation on data use. Difficulties are identified from both theoretical and practical perspective. Four case studies in Dutch municipalities are conducted. Difficulties in the field of privacy arise in purpose limitation and in a lack of clarity on identifying and using personal data. This research finalizes by providing basic solutions for addressing the difficulties identified.