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There’s nothing creepier than doing a quick Google search for vacuum cleaners, then mysteriously finding a Dyson ad on your Facebook page moments later. That’s not happening by chance. Google collects a lot of your personal data to improve your online experience, target ads, and entice you to spend more money. So, if you ever get the feeling you’re being watched, you’re probably right. Yes, the same company that was once accused of violating federal wiretap law when it began collecting emails and other personal data to build its popular Google Street View program is also using your online habits to make money. Its Gmail, Google search, and Android products serve as incognito data collectors. But it’s no secret. A run-through of its privacy policy clearly states that Google knows this information. The how much it knows, and the sophistication by which it gathers it, may be surprising to you. Here is exactly what Google tracks, what it knows about you, and how much your information is worth to other buyers. 1. What you search online Your online search history is used to get you to spend more money. | iStock.com/scyther5 Google uses your search history to send you personalized ads. Although slightly deceptive, it’s the bread and butter of their business model. Roughly 90% of Google’s entire revenue is from advertising. So, when you search for something either in the Chrome browser, via your smartphone, or in another app like Maps or Waze, Google is tracking your activity by default to provide you a unique, customized experience that conveniently fits your current needs or interests. Surely, this info is helpful to law enforcement agencies hoping to catch dangerous criminals. But for the everyday American, it’s simply a way to get you to spend more money. After all, your search for the “best coffee maker for apartment living” only helps Google build your distinct user profile to be capitalized on — or sold — elsewhere (but more on that later). Next: Apple’s Siri isn’t the only virtual assistant listening in. |
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