Although “privacy” has several definitions, it’s generally understood to be a person’s right to control access to their personal information. On the internet, the desire for privacy remains true across all users, even as privacy can mean very different things to different people.
For the EIUs, it could mean protecting themselves against data breaches, ransomware, or hackers. For NIUs, it could present more analog concerns. In many NBU countries, for example, sharing a smartphone with spouses, siblings, or children is often a cultural expectation, especially for women. (See Women). But it comes with the risk that others might access their personal information, search histories or files. In another example, NIUs often rely on family or friends to help them perform online tasks, which can include private and sensitive tasks like paying bills and creating accounts. NIUs who use voice tools to listen to online content or communicate with friends and family may also face privacy issues because they’re constantly surrounded by other people who might overhear them.
