# Fair Trade Metaphor as a Control Privacy Method for Pervasive Environments: Concepts and Evaluation

## TL;DR

This paper introduces a 'fair trade' metaphor to manage user privacy by offering services in exchange for shared personal information.

## Contribution

A novel privacy control method using a fair trade metaphor combined with optimistic access control and transaction registry.

## Key findings

- User responses indicate the method is perceived as useful and easy to use.
- The metaphor enhances users' perception of control over their information.
- The approach encourages information sharing while building system trust.

## Abstract

This paper presents a proof of concept from which the metaphor of “fair trade” is validated as an alternative to manage the private information of users. Our privacy solution deals with user's privacy as a tradable good for obtaining environmental services. Thus, users gain access to more valuable services as they share more personal information. This strategy, combined with optimistic access control and transaction registry mechanisms, enhances users' confidence in the system while encouraging them to share their information, with the consequent benefit for the community. The study results are promising considering the user responses regarding the usefulness, ease of use, information classification and perception of control with the mechanisms proposed by the metaphor.