The world moves fast. We are grateful for quick and easy solutions. We all seek convenience. Businesses know it. Websites share information quickly and easily. The apps on your phones cater to convenience. But do you really know what you are getting?
Thanks to legislation originating in Europe and our country following their lead, you are allowed to turn off tracking on apps. You also can adjust the tracking so you are not constantly monitored by companies. Their main goal is to draw you into their stores when you are near. Or notify for their “once in a lifetime sale.”
Yes, you are being sold to constantly, but what about our priorities? You have some options. For example, when we go to a new website, the following (or something similar) pops up:
We use cookies to enhance user experience, analyze website traffic and offer personalized advertising, per our Privacy Policy.
By stopping a moment and at least clicking through to adjust what the company can share about you, you are protecting your personal information. Do not be so quick to click on “Accept All.” This simple step is the least you can do when venturing on new websites.
Companies, once you are on their website, indicate there are privacy policies. Now who really reads the privacy policies? I used to but admit they have become unwieldy and time consuming. Who can keep up? For example, here is one company’s privacy policy I did recently read:
“reserves the right, at any time, to change this policy, in whole or in part, in its sole discretion. Please review this policy periodically to ensure you are aware of any changes and are familiar with the most current version. This Privacy Notice is not a contract and does not create any contractual rights or obligations."
I do not suggest you stop all applications and websites. That would be foolhardy in today’s world.
I do recommend being cautious when signing up for “easy payment” methods that benefit the businesses rather you. Despite the convenience of online paying, we need to be cautious. Company portals have their own restrictions and waivers of liability. Last month, I tried out one for a utility we use.
Here is what is in their policies:
Complete security of your transactions and information is the foremost consideration of our service. The Provider will have no liability for any use of your user ID or password that was not authorized by you and us. If you think your user ID or password has been compromised or if someone has used the Service without your permission, you must tell us at once. For your protection, sign off after every use of the Service, and close your browser to ensure confidentiality.
We strive to respect our customers’ desire for privacy. However, we will need to disclose some information about you to a third party in order to process the credit card charges. Additional privacy policies
You agree to waive any claim or action against us for use of the Service, except where we have acted with gross negligence or willful misconduct. Where applicable, claims are subject to the limitations of liability provided in applicable tariffs and offerings.
We make no representations or warranties of any kind with respect to the Service, including, but not limited to, warranties of fitness for a particular purpose or merchantability. We assume no responsibility with respect to any use of the Service. You agree that we shall not be liable for any special, incidental, indirect, punitive, or consequential damages or for the loss of profit, revenue, or data arising out of the Service. Furthermore, you agree to indemnify and hold us harmless from any actions, claims, damages, liabilities, or losses arising from your use of the service that is not in compliance with these Conditions of Use.
Have you read the small print? This is just a reminder to be aware of what price you pay for convenience. Holding on to your money is as important as making and investing it.
Consider this a warning to choose which companies you give all your hard-earned money and your privacy. Thinking through what works for you and your family is the goal. Not just clicking through mindlessly.