Fact Check: "Your precise location (within a radius of less than 500 metres) may be used in support of the purposes explained in this notice."
What We Know
The claim regarding the use of precise location data is supported by various sources that outline the legal and operational frameworks surrounding location data collection. According to a report by Larisa O King, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has taken significant steps to regulate the collection and use of sensitive location data, particularly by data brokers. The FTC's actions include prohibiting companies from using precise geolocation data without explicit consumer consent, especially when it pertains to sensitive locations such as medical facilities or places of worship (Privacy in a Location Data-Driven Market).
Moreover, the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) mandates that businesses must provide clear notice to consumers about the collection of precise geolocation data and offer options for consumers to limit its use (California's Latest Privacy Push: The Location Tracking). This aligns with the notion that precise location data can indeed be used for specific purposes, provided that consumers are informed and consent to such use.
Analysis
The evidence suggests that the claim is accurate, as it reflects the current legal landscape regarding location data. The FTC's enforcement actions against companies like Mobilewalla and Kochava highlight a growing concern over the misuse of precise location data. The FTC's final order against Mobilewalla explicitly prohibits the use of sensitive location data without consumer consent, reinforcing the idea that precise location information can be utilized for various purposes, provided the consumer is adequately informed and consents (Privacy in a Location Data-Driven Market).
Additionally, Google's privacy policy indicates that location information is integral to enhancing user experience across its services, which further supports the claim that precise location data is often leveraged for specific purposes, including personalized advertising and service improvement (How Google uses location information – Privacy & Terms).
However, it is essential to note that the reliability of the sources is high, as they come from reputable organizations and legal frameworks that are actively involved in privacy regulation. The FTC and California's legal provisions are well-established entities that provide a structured approach to data privacy, making their statements credible.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that "Your precise location (within a radius of less than 500 metres) may be used in support of the purposes explained in this notice" is substantiated by current regulations and practices surrounding location data. The FTC's enforcement actions and the requirements set forth by the CCPA indicate that precise location data can indeed be used for specific purposes, provided that consumers are informed and have given their consent.
Sources
- Privacy in a Location Data-Driven Market
- How Google uses location information – Privacy & Terms
- California's Latest Privacy Push: The Location Tracking
- Precise Geolocation: Recent Trends and Enforcement
- Privacy Policy for location data
- USA: Location tracking data: current legislation and future
- Policy Brief: Location Data Under Existing Privacy Laws