Cloud Computing in Libraries

 By Leslie Quach

Cloud Computing is an unfamiliar term for me so after further searching, my understanding of this boils down to a data backup, self-service/on-demand, and cost efficient service. It seems to be like Apple's iCloud or sometimes referred to as "the cloud", basically a computer service over the internet rather than a physical service or purchase. 

Now, since we connected cloud computing to something more familiar, it makes it a little easier to understand. 

A common issue with cloud computing among consumers has always been privacy, it's something people typically heard when talking about "the cloud" when the era of smart phones was emerging. According to the article, "Mobile cloud computing apps and information disclosure: the moderating roles of dispositional and behaviour-based traits" it mentions, "other third parties, such as the government, can read users' data without permission, and users' data can be used for other purposes without their awareness" which happens often enough that lawsuits come out of it. 

In California, to combat this issue, operating a business or having a California customer base, it's required to follow the California Online Privacy Protection Act (CalOPPA) which asks users if they will allow tracking across other websites and apps.

However, it's a perceived risk. Others find this to be a nonissue, the experience apps or websites provide outweigh this risk. How would you pick and choose what companies can store your personal information? 

References

Nikkhah, H. R., Sabherwal, R., & Sarabadani, J. (2022). Mobile cloud computing apps and information disclosure: the moderating roles of dispositional and behaviour-based traits. Behaviour & Information Technology, 41(13), 2745–2761. https://doi-org.palomar.idm.oclc.org/10.1080/0144929X.2021.1946591