An information architecture framework for enhancing privacy in social network applications

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Innovative web applications, particularly social network applications, have significantly transformed communication and self-expression in recent years. While these platforms thrive on the vast amounts of personally identifiable information shared by users, they also face risks related to data misuse, jeopardizing user privacy and their own business models. The political landscape has shifted, with advocacy groups and governments increasingly focused on protecting online consumers, especially vulnerable populations like children and young adults. Recent surveys indicate that social network services are now more frequently used than commercial services such as online shopping or banking. The advertising industry finds value in the collection and analysis of personal data for targeted advertising, but this allure also invites numerous risks of data abuse, compounded by technological vulnerabilities. The discourse surrounding data and privacy protection in social networks has gained traction, particularly concerning the reckless sharing of personal information by youth. This publication outlines the myriad risks to user privacy across all age groups and details the necessary privacy protection measures that should be integrated into user-friendly applications. It presents a framework for an information architecture that highlights essential design elements and technical requirements for developing privacy-conscious social networ