The hidden cost of convenience: How your data pulls in hundreds of billions of dollars for app and social media companies
Briefly

Many free apps, including weather and social media applications, collect extensive personal information from users. This data collection includes device identifiers, user preferences, app interactions, and location tracking. Companies utilize the information to customize advertising, enhancing profit generation. The practice of data collection is typical and allows firms to learn about user habits, which they exploit for financial gain. Notably, social media platforms like Meta rely heavily on such data for their business models, with a significant portion of their profits derived from targeted advertising.
The app collects various personal data, including device information and user preferences, enabling companies to tailor ads and generate more revenue from users.
Most 'free' mobile apps gather extensive personal data, which is sold or used for targeted advertising, ultimately benefiting the app owners financially.
Mobile applications like social media platforms use user data for profit, showcasing how personal information is instrumental to their business models.
Read at The Conversation
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