Digital Fairness

Equity, Transparency & Accountability in Digital Platforms

What Is Digital Fairness?

Digital Fairness ensures that technology respects user rights, prevents bias, and operates with full transparency. By embedding fairness principles into design and governance, digital platforms can build trust and deliver equitable experiences.

Core Principles

Why Digital Fairness Matters

As algorithms shape vital services—credit scoring, hiring, content curation—unfair practices can reinforce inequalities. Digital Fairness is critical to:

Key Challenges

EU Digital Fairness Act

The Digital Fairness Act is an upcoming EU regulation proposed by Commissioner Michael McGrath, aiming to strengthen consumer protections in digital services. It addresses manipulative and opaque practices that exploit users.

Key Provisions

For more details visit digitalfairnessact.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are dark patterns?
Dark patterns are deceptive UI techniques designed to trick users into actions they did not intend, such as hidden opt-outs or disguised ads.
How can I check if a platform is fair?
Look for transparency reports, clear data policies, and user controls over personalization and data access.
How do I report unfair digital practices?
Contact your national consumer protection authority or use platform-provided feedback channels for automated decision appeals.

Glossary of Key Terms

Algorithmic Impact Assessment
A process to evaluate potential harms and biases of automated systems before deployment.
Data Portability
The ability for users to transfer their personal data between service providers easily.
Dark Patterns
UI/UX designs that mislead or coerce users into unintended actions.
Opt-in Consent
An explicit form of user agreement where data processing only begins after clear permission is given.
Transparency Report
A public document detailing how data is used, with insights into automated decision-making criteria.

How You Can Promote Digital Fairness