Abstract
The results of an online survey support a growing body of evidence that user discomfort increases in proportion to the accuracy with which wireless communication networks determine the physical location of a wireless device. We describe a method for conveying and applying user preferences for location granularity (inaccuracy) with such location-based services. Using this method, a user may limit the location granularity either globally, for particular services, or for particular individuals who might wish to locate the user. Upon detecting a request to use a location service, a wireless device sends to the service provider a message directing how to carry out the requested service. Upon receiving the instructions, the service provider would proceed to determine the location of the device, adjust the granularity as appropriate to the user's preference, then return the adjusted location. We believe that this method will alleviate some of users' concerns related to the privacy and control of location information.
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