How 85% of People's Data is Sold by Tech Giants?

A recent global survey has brought to light a startling revelation: a staggering 85% of respondents are unaware that their private digital footprints are being harvested and sold by technology companies on a massive scale.

Harvesting of Your Data

In the realm of the digital world, every action you take leaves behind a 'digital footprint.' Each website visit and online interaction is meticulously recorded, creating a comprehensive digital history. Certain tech corporations methodically compile this information, crafting detailed data profiles. These profiles may include:

- Personal Identifiers: Names, addresses, dates of birth

- Consumer Behaviour: Purchase history, clicked ads, preferred websites

- Social Behaviour: Friends, interactions, likes and dislikes on social media

- Professional Details: Job positions, LinkedIn activity, email details

 

The Societal Impact

This trade fundamentally challenges the concepts of privacy and consent. Many individuals remain oblivious to the fact that their personal information is being exploited without permission, leading to feelings of mistrust and anxiety. The repercussions of this deceptive trade are diverse:

- Proliferation of Targeted Advertising: A Pew Research Centre study found that over 80% of internet users in the United States believe they have been tracked by advertisers or social media platforms, resulting in targeted advertisements.

- Rise of Cybercrimes: According to a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) report, identity theft complaints in the United States surged to 1.4 million in 2022, marking a significant increase from previous years.

- Dissemination of Misinformation and Fake News: Research published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that false information spreads six times faster than true information on social media platforms.

 

Protecting Your Data

Despite the concerning landscape, Steffan Black asserts, "Awareness is the first step towards the resolution of this issue." Here are proactive tips to safeguard your digital footprint:

- Be Conscious About Sharing: Avoid providing unnecessary personal information, especially on public forums and websites, to minimize the risk of data misuse.

- Update Your Settings: Regularly review and update privacy settings on social media accounts, limiting the visibility of personal information to trusted individuals.

- Employ Encryption and VPN: Use encrypted messaging apps and consider a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to protect online activities, particularly when using public Wi-Fi networks.

- Delete Unnecessary Data: Regularly audit and delete unnecessary personal data stored online. Explore options to request the removal of your data from data broker websites to minimize accessibility.

 

Navigating Digital Waters

While the internet offers vast information and connections, it also poses unseen risks. This discussion aims to shed light on the unregulated trade of personal data beneath the surface, enabling individuals to navigate these digital waters more securely. In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, maintaining awareness, education, and vigilance about preserving online privacy is crucial. Remember, privacy is not a privilege but a fundamental right.