FTC Strikes Back: Data Brokers Caught Red-Handed in Location Snooping Scandal
Gravy Analytics and Mobilewalla are in hot water with the FTC for hawking precise location data without consent. They agreed to delete improperly collected data and bolster privacy safeguards. Yes, even data brokers must now practice safe data handling. Key takeaway: Your phone knows where you’ve been, and now so does everyone else!
Hot Take:
When your private life becomes an open book, courtesy of data brokers, perhaps it’s time to switch from “Where’s Waldo?” to “Where’s my privacy?” But don’t worry, the FTC’s got your back! Who knew Big Brother was just a data broker in disguise? Let’s hope this settlement puts a pin in the creepy surveillance balloon!
Key Points:
- The FTC reached settlements with Gravy Analytics and Mobilewalla for selling precise location data without consent.
- Data brokers bought and sold location data from app developers, lacking proper consent checks.
- Both companies agreed to delete improperly collected data and implement privacy safeguards.
- FTC’s unanimous 5-0 vote highlights bipartisan concern over privacy issues.
- CFPB proposes new rules to limit the sale of sensitive personal and financial data.
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