My Apps Are Following Me!

Why do businesses want to collect this information in the first place? One reason is to provide a more personal experience. For example, YouTube tracks what videos people watch. Then it can suggest others that viewers might enjoy. 

But the main reason apps collect data is to make money. They sell your information to advertisers, who use it to figure out what you’re likely to buy. Advertisers then place targeted ads for those items on other websites and apps you visit. 

Why do apps want to collect this information about users? One reason is to provide a more personal experience. For example, YouTube tracks what videos people watch. It uses that information to suggest other videos that viewers might enjoy. 

But the main reason apps collect data is to make money. They sell your information to advertisers. Those advertisers use it to figure out what you’re likely to buy. They then place targeted ads for those items on other websites and apps you visit. 

Many people think this type of data collection is a major invasion of privacy. That includes Jill Bronfman. She’s a privacy expert at Common Sense, an organization that helps kids stay safe online.

“Everyone should have privacy rights, even young children,” she says.

Most apps have privacy policies that explain what details they gather. But those policies are often long, confusing, and hard to find.

It’s nearly impossible to remain completely anonymous online. But there are ways you can protect your information. For starters, download only apps that your parents have approved, says Bronfman. She also suggests never lying about your age. Restrictions are there to protect you. Don’t share personal details, like your name, where you live, or what school you go to. And come up with usernames that don’t identify you. Most importantly, Bronfman warns, always stay aware. 

“Companies are always watching what you’re doing online,” she says.

Many people think this type of data collection is a major invasion of privacy. That includes Jill Bronfman. She’s a privacy expert at Common Sense. That organization helps kids stay safe online.

“Everyone should have privacy rights, even young children,” she says.

Most apps have privacy policies. They explain what details they gather. But those policies are often long and confusing. They can also be hard to find on the app.

It’s nearly impossible to remain anonymous online. But there are ways to protect your information. Bronfman says you should download only apps that your parents have approved. She also suggests never lying about your age. Restrictions are there to protect you. Also, don’t share personal details. Avoid giving your name, where you live, or what school you go to. And come up with usernames that don’t identify you. Most importantly, Bronfman warns, always stay aware. 

“Companies are always watching what you’re doing online,” she says.

1. Why does the author talk about a company called Pixalate?
2. Summarize the central ideas in the section “Data for Sale.”
3. What are two things kids can do to protect their privacy online?

1. Why does the author talk about a company called Pixalate?
2. Summarize the central ideas in the section “Data for Sale.”
3. What are two things kids can do to protect their privacy online?