Complete 14 pages APA formatted article: Mobile Computing and Social Networks. Recently the UK government has identified the significance of allowing consumers to obtain access to their own data, and

Complete 14 pages APA formatted article: Mobile Computing and Social Networks.

Recently the UK government has identified the significance of allowing consumers to obtain access to their own data, and therefore proposed a plan called the Miata project. The Miata project requires utilities and web-based firms to provide consumers with machine-readable records of transactions. As per a BBC report dated Aug 22, 2012, the UK Consumer Minister Norman Lamb opines that allowing customers to access their own transaction data is advantageous for both consumers and UK businesses. Lamb adds that “Midata will allow consumers greater insight into their everyday consumption and lifestyle habits by using applications and intermediaries to analyze their actual behaviors and thereby empower them to make better spending choices and secure the best deals” (BBC News).

Similarly, this facility is greatly helpful for banking customers as it aids them to obtain different services including bank statements with the help of mobile applications. When customers gain access to their banking data at home, they need not miss important conferences or other meetings. Evidently, the frequent access to banking data would assist people to effectively plan their financial future. Furthermore, this type of periodical review may benefit consumers to mitigate security risks including credit card fraud to a great extent.

In the field of healthcare, consumers obtain a range of benefits by gaining access to their own data. By accessing their own health care data, it is possible for consumers to cut down unnecessary health costs. For instance, health organizations like hospitals store patient medical information including blood groups, scan reports, and other records. If the individual seeks healthcare assistance in another hospital after a few days or months, they do not have to spend additional money on blood group tests and scanning if they have access to their health care data.