Regulators must protect the economically vulnerable to ensure that they are not exploited or discriminated against in an increasingly digitalised world, Tony Fish, author of My Digital Footprint, warned recruiters during recent talks in London and Manchester.

Because commercial entities that offer free services, products and other benefits to users of mobile phones are not interested in reaching out to people with limited financial resources, Fish predicted that economically fragile consumers may be left behind. “Having an identity doesn’t create value,” Fish said.

Focusing on identity in the digital world, Fish offered one of two contrasting views of the promises and the threats of mobile phones and digital technology at Jobsite’s most recent Fresh Thinking roadshow. He shared the podium with Finnish author and consultant Tomi Ahonen, who took a more optimistic view of what greater use of mobile technology can offer.

Ahonen outlined what he said were the nine unique abilities of mobiles “to create magic”. For recruiters, one of mobile’s most useful properties is that it is the most accurate tool with which to measure audiences. Other uses offer revolutionary developments on a personal level, Ahonen pointed out. Mobile’s use as a personal bank to receive and make payments is already being widely experienced in Kenya, while residents of a town in Germany can use their mobiles to turn on the lights in their streets when travelling home at night.

“Mobile is the magical money-making machine,” Ahonen said. He added: “If you do mobile advertising well, your customers will ask you for more.”