Aalto University Magazine examines trust in the digital world, commerce and between people

The latest Aalto University Magazine 28 looks at trust from various viewpoints. In the Openings column, Aalto University’s Chief Digital Officer Kati Hagros points out that the algorithms operating in the background of information systems are always written based on values. “These values must be made visible just like the values of decision-making people and institutions.”

The main article deals with information security: encryption specialists and good guy hackers who Aalto alumnus and HackerOne CEO Mårten Mickos calls the boyscouts of the digital world: they have high morals, good hearts and a desire to help.

The Who article recounts how Sami Marttinen got the idea for starting a company, refurbished iPhone seller Swappie, after getting conned by an online seller. He explains how the building of trust is of particular importance in the marketing of used phones because of its poor reputation in so many countries.

Professor Esa Saarinen, who is retiring this summer, talks about what happens when trust is lacking between people – it causes personal anxiety and worries that eat away at creativity.

This issue’s On the go article is about rugby. What does research work have in common with this fast-paced contact sport?

Aalto Professor of Practice Lasse Mitronen and Assistant Professor Mikko Hänninen from Nottingham University discuss online purchases and knowledge-driven management.

The science articles look at what quantum technology is and how it is about to affect the world. The article on specialised networks notes that information is not safe on the internet, but mobile network-based specialised networks could help enhance security.

Miri Stryjan, Assistant Professor of Economics, tells in her Oops! story how insects and bad weather endangered her dissertation. Professor Kaie Kubjas, in turn, tells about the relevance of mathematics in her Everyday choices story.

Aalto University Magazine is published in Finnish and English. Copies are mailed to all alumni subscribers and digital versions can be accessed through the site issuu.com, in addition to which some articles are posted on aalto.fi/magazine.