Understanding Data Brokers and Your Personal Data

How Data Brokers Use Your Personal Data

Data brokers exploit your personal data to create detailed profiles for profit. In an era of rampant Internet usage, these entities capitalize on sensitive information you unknowingly share. Let's explore their methods and the information they collect.

What Types of Information Do Data Brokers Collect?

• Name
• Address
• Date of birth
• Mobile number
• Email address
• Marital status
• Occupation
• Income level
• Health information
• Shopping behaviours
• Political views
• Personal interests

These data points allow brokers to assemble a unique profile about you, helping them predict future shopping habits and preferences, which they sell to advertisers.

How Do Data Brokers Collect Your Personal Data?

• Public Records: Information from birth certificates, marriage, and divorce records.
• Social Media: Personal data from your profiles, posts, and interactions.
• Online Shopping: Data collected during your purchases, including card information.
• General Internet Activity: Browsing habits monitored through cookies.

Each method allows them to gather significant amounts of valuable data that can be monetized.

If you’re concerned about personal information being mishandled by data brokers, consider services like DeleteMe to manage your online presence.