exposurewithout

Exposurewithout is a term used to describe a design and ethics principle aimed at eliminating exposure of individuals to data collection, surveillance, or sensitive content by default. It is used across digital privacy, product development, and media design.

The term appeared in online privacy discussions in the mid-2010s, with early usage in blog posts and community forums. It combines exposure and without to convey removal of exposure through deliberate choices and controls.

In practice, exposurewithout encompasses data minimization, on-device processing, anonymization, strict consent, transparent data flows, and user interface patterns that reduce incidental data sharing. It also extends to content governance, such as adaptive filtering and content warnings to prevent unintended exposure to harmful material.

Critics say the term is broad and lacks precise metrics, making it difficult to evaluate. Proponents argue it helps unify privacy-by-design principles and makes user rights more tangible in product development.

See also data minimization, privacy by design, opt-in consent, de-identification.