The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has taken significant action against two data brokers, Gravy Analytics and Mobilewalla, for their practices of collecting and selling sensitive location data of millions of Americans. The FTC's decision is a significant step towards protecting individual privacy and limiting the surveillance capabilities of these companies.
The Data Brokers' Practices
Both Gravy Analytics and Mobilewalla were found to be collecting and selling location data that could be used to track individuals to sensitive locations such as:
- Healthcare facilities
- Military bases
- Religious sites
- Labor union gatherings
- Protest sites
Mobilewalla, in particular, was collecting data through real-time bidding exchanges, which allowed them to track users' mobile devices and build detailed profiles. This data was then used to create targeted advertising campaigns and analyze sensitive groups, including pregnant women and protesters.
Venntel, a subsidiary of Gravy Analytics, collected location data from various mobile apps and sold access to this data to government agencies, including the IRS, DEA, FBI, CBP, and ICE.
The FTC's Action
The FTC has issued orders prohibiting both companies from:
- Selling, disclosing, or using sensitive location data in any product or service.
- Misrepresenting how they collect, maintain, use, delete, or disclose consumer personal information.
- Using, transferring, selling, and disclosing sensitive location data from specific locations like health clinics, religious organizations, correctional facilities, labor union offices, LGBTQ+ related locations, political gatherings, and military installations.
The Impact of the FTC's Decision
This decision by the FTC is a significant victory for privacy advocates and individuals concerned about their data being misused. It highlights the growing concern over the surveillance capabilities of data brokers and the potential for misuse of sensitive personal information.
Senator Ron Wyden, a key advocate for privacy rights, praised the FTC's action, stating that these data brokers were selling sensitive information about law enforcement, judges, and military personnel to anyone with a credit card. He also highlighted the potential for government agencies to use this data to spy on Americans without a warrant.
The Future of Data Privacy
The FTC's action is a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done to protect individual privacy. It is crucial for lawmakers to enact comprehensive data privacy legislation that would provide stronger protections for consumers. Additionally, individuals should be aware of the data that is being collected about them and take steps to protect their privacy, such as using privacy-focused apps and browsers.
By taking these steps, we can limit the ability of data brokers to track and monitor our activities and ensure a more private future for all.
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