So much for that privacy policy

Tuesday July 15, 2003 at 5:41 pm

I always pay attention to the privacy policy on web sites where I intend to do business or provide personal information. I've been happy to see "we won't sell your information" on most sites and have always considered that practice a point in a company's favor. That is until now. I read that, although the statement above is true, the fact that they won't sell your information doesn't mean they won't rent it. Yes, that's right — renting your personal information. I found it quite reprehensible and deceptive when I read this article on the topic. Apparently it's quite lucrative and is an extensive practice. This is a pathetic disservice to consumers and, as deceptive trade goes, should be stopped by the government. If you tell me you won't sell my information, you are inferring that you won't share it (although, truthfully, that's not what you said). Companies are using that statement to fool consumers into trusting that their information won't be shared. Sadly, most customers will be surprised and confused when they get spammed or sent pounds of junk mail or start getting telemarketing calls — all because someone rented, not sold, their personal information. Pitiful and shameful.

jason

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