A naukri.com initiative
Medium
1M
81
Image Credit: Medium
Data Brokers: The Invisible Hand Selling Your Life Behind Your Back
- Personal information being sold without consent has become a common occurrence, with individuals like Emma finding themselves victims of data brokers.
- The data brokerage industry, valued at $257 billion in 2023, operates legally but often without individuals' knowledge, raising concerns about privacy and consent.
- Data brokers collect and sell personal details to various entities like retailers, banks, employers, political campaigns, and scammers, impacting individuals' lives without their explicit permission.
- Methods of data collection include tracking online activities, mobile apps, location tracking, public records, and surveys, leading to extensive profiling and data exploitation.
- Concerns arising from data brokerage include identity theft, price discrimination, manipulation through targeted ads, and the illusion of control over personal data.
- To reclaim privacy, individuals are advised to share less online, adjust privacy settings, use privacy tools like VPNs and ad blockers, opt-out from data brokers, and be cautious of permissions granted to apps.
- Taking back control of personal data involves auditing online presence, implementing privacy tools, and actively opting out from data brokerage services to protect oneself in the digital realm.
- Privacy has now become a luxury, as individuals need to be aware of the real cost behind 'free' services and take steps to safeguard their personal information in the digital age.
- Understanding the implications of data trading and taking proactive measures can empower individuals to mitigate risks associated with data exploitation by brokers.
- It is crucial for everyone to be informed about the sale of their data and take necessary actions to safeguard their privacy and prevent unauthorized use of personal information.
- Raising awareness about data privacy and implementing protective measures can help individuals navigate the digital landscape securely and protect their valuable personal information from being exploited.
Read Full Article
4 Likes
For uninterrupted reading, download the app