Ever Wondered Who Really Knows You?
When people talk about online privacy, the usual suspects come to mind: Google, Facebook, maybe your favourite shopping app. But behind the scenes, there’s a shadow industry built entirely around your data. These are data brokers—companies you’ve probably never heard of, yet they know more about you than your closest friends.
What Are Data Brokers?
Data brokers are companies that collect, analyse, and sell personal information. They don’t hack into your accounts or steal your passwords. Instead, they hoover up publicly available details, app activity, purchase history, and even location data. Then they package it up and sell it to advertisers, insurers, or anyone willing to pay.
Why Should You Care?
- Massive profiles – They build files with your age, income, habits, and even political leanings.
- No transparency – Most people don’t know these companies exist, let alone what info they hold.
- Data leaks happen – When brokers get breached, your personal life is suddenly up for grabs.
- Targeted manipulation – Ads, scams, or even political campaigns can use broker data to push your buttons.
Real Example
In 2023, US-based broker *Acxiom* admitted to handling data on hundreds of millions of people worldwide. That included personal profiles with thousands of attributes—like marital status, children’s ages, income bands, and even TV subscriptions. Most of the people listed had no idea their details were being traded.
How to Limit What They Know
- Check if you’re listed – Some brokers let you request a copy of your data. Others let you opt out.
- Use privacy tools – Browser extensions like uBlock Origin or Privacy Badger reduce tracking.
- Cut down oversharing – Every “free” quiz or app you use could be another data source.
- Use trusted sources – Learn more about protecting your personal information at the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (opens in new tab).
- Read before you tap – Review app permissions before you hit install.
Key Takeaway
Data brokers thrive in the shadows. The less you know about them, the more power they have. But once you understand how they work, you can take steps to reduce their reach into your life.
Final Word
Privacy isn’t dead, but it is under constant attack from industries you don’t see. By shining a light on data brokers, we take back a little control. And at The Cyber Workshop, we’ll keep giving you the tools and knowledge to fight back.
👋 Till next time, remember: it’s not paranoia if they’re really tracking you.
