Consumer Reports supports AB 322, legislation that would create commonsense protections around the collection and use of precise geolocation data, including banning the sale of it outright. Geolocation can be useful for pro-consumer applications such as turn-by-turn directions and finding a nearby restaurant; however, all too often this information is secretly collected and shared by dozens if not hundreds of ad networks and data brokers with whom consumers have no relationship or even awareness.
AB 322, which Consumer Reports is an official co-sponsor of, takes the place of AB 1355, legislation that failed to secure passage from the Assembly Appropriations Committee earlier this session.
Some harms from the sale of precise geolocation information include:
- Scamming, stalking, and spying;
- Predatory use of consumer data; and
- Enhanced risks of data breaches.
To read more, please see the attached PDF.