Wild Communities and Online Markets: Crowd Sourced Securitization and the Management of Risk

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

Over the past decade, research into social media security has gained popularity. While there remains much to be learned, we are gaining a better understanding of the motives behind individual use of online sites/platforms. Online websites and applications have changed the way people travel (Uber), rent properties (AirBnb), and buy/sell items (eBay and Amazon). Additionally, it has changed the way people interact and form online, personal relationships (Tinder), the way people share news (Twitter), and even the way people share personal information via pictures (Instagram). This study examines the ways in which the social mediates exchanges via the producers/users/consumers of online markets by exploring the governance of online processes through community. Each platform’s policies were examined to tease out the ways in which security, risk, and privacy are articulated. The policy documents shed light on discussions of self-governance and self-regulation/responsibilization as it pertains to how users manage online security. To delve deeper, narratives of those who participate in these online platforms were examined to shed light on the shared economy. The findings highlight how users perceive their online activity (as dangerous, safe, risk-free), and how any of their experiences may have changed the way(s) in which they engage online.

Author

• Antonio R. Verbora, University of Windsor