Want to Opt Out of Your Data Being Sold, Shared or Used? Good Luck

Read the fine print. And even that might not help. A new report found some of the largest online platforms in the world -- Google, Meta, Amazon and TikTok among them -- are making it very difficult for people to opt out of their data being collected and used.

In its report, Good Luck Opting Out -- Manipulative Design Patterns in Opt-Out Processes, the digital privacy and advocacy group Electronic Privacy Information Center examined the opt-out procedures for 38 major companies that collect customer data.

Many of these companies use "dark patterns" in their opt-out processes, the investigation found. That term refers to intentionally tricking, guiding or pressuring consumers to allow their data to be collected, shared and sold through deceptive or confusing methods on company websites and apps.

Too many companies deny their customers true choice over the use of their personal data, EPIC Counsel Caroline Kraczon said...

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