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Contextual Integrity

Privacy

Privacy theory (Nissenbaum) focusing on appropriate information flows within social contexts and norms.

Definition

Contextual integrity evaluates privacy by whether data sharing aligns with contextual norms: actors (sender/receiver), attributes (data type), and transmission principles (conditions). Violations occur when flows change unexpectedly.

In plain English Privacy theory (Nissenbaum) focusing on appropriate information flows within social contexts and norms.

Why this matters

Why it matters: It provides a practical lens for assessing “surprising” or unfair data reuse beyond legal checklists.

Example

Example: Health data used for targeted advertising violates expected norms even if technically permitted by broad terms.