How your data is used

JavaScript is disabled
If possible, please enable JavaScript for an enhanced experience on the CHOICE website.

Your data is a precious commodity for marketeers and algorithm builders.

Data lets businesses track your behaviour, online and offline, and build up an accurate profile of you, including your age, sex, income, where you go, what you buy, what interests you. They can then tailor their marketing and decision-making just for you – from personalising the ads you see on social media to knocking back your home-loan application. Like it or not, data affects every aspect of your life, which is why you need to know about it.

Articles

Kmart and Bunnings back down on facial recognition after CHOICE investigation The two retail giants had initially resisted calls to stop using the controversial technology.

Woolworths, Coles, Aldi: No plans to use facial recognition technology We reveal the retailers not using facial recognition in their stores, as Bunnings and Kmart pause using the controversial technology in response.

How cashback sites use your data Apps and sites like Cashrewards and ShopBack may save you a little on your shopping, but what do you give up in return?

Kmart, Bunnings and The Good Guys using facial recognition technology in stores Three major retailers in Australia are using facial recognition technology, often without shoppers realising.

Online consumers harmed by 'dark patterns' in web design New research shows people are experiencing harm due to deceptive web design, also known as 'dark patterns'.

Op-ed: Just how much does Airbnb need to know? Companies such as Airbnb should be collecting only the information they need to provide their service – nothing more.

Op-ed: Why we need better oversight of targeted online advertising Researchers are shining a light on Facebook's dark ads.

Is Airbnb using an algorithm to ban users from the platform? Airbnb may be using automated decision-making to leave some users out in the cold.

Global report reveals Tinder Plus price discrimination rampant After a CHOICE investigation, a global consumer group has found Tinder price discrimination in five out of six countries surveyed.

How Australians feel about being charged different prices for the same goods Our latest survey shows most people don't want to be charged a different price for the same product than someone else.

Targeted pricing online Why you could be paying a higher price for online goods and services without knowing.

Tinder charges older people more A CHOICE mystery shop reveals the dating app's pricing model could fall foul of discrimination laws.

Op-ed: Tinder's secret pricing shows how companies use our data against us CHOICE director of campaigns Erin Turner calls for ethical data use.

Op-ed: How digital marketing of alcohol, gambling and junk food harms consumers Researchers are lifting the lid on online ads for alcohol and other harmful products.

Op-ed: Tinder's misuse of data leaves a lot to be desired Tinder should be transparent about how and why they charge different prices for the same product.

Open banking is coming, and it could save you money How gaining control of your data might help you get a better deal from the banks.

Show 12 more articles

Related

Data collection and use

Data privacy and safety

Data laws and regulation