More Privacy out the Window ... er cell phone

[Duper]

Well, I guess it was just a matter of time before someone figured out how to use our cell phones for "Collecting marketing data" without us even knowing about it.

This is kind of a long article and I haven't read it all, but it makes me glad (again) that I use a cell phone. The jist of it is that an English company uses tech to track cell phone calls in malls. They say that no personal information is being collected so that would imply that all they do is collect that phone calls are being made within stores/malls. I don't see where that's useful to anyone. You could argue for it, but I call shenanigans.

Anyways, here's the link: CLIK!

[Heretic]

If no information is store how are they going to enhance your shopping experience?

[Sergeant Thorne]

You didn't read the whole article before posting? Internet A.D.D.?

If no information is store how are they going to enhance your shopping experience?

What they're doing is using your phone as a unique identifier for storing movement/shopping data. Your first and last name, along with any other information that technically falls under "personally identifiable" is superfluous until they wish to be seen as interacting with you on a personal basis. To them you are where you go, and eventually (or they wouldn't have made the initial investment, if you ask me) what you buy. This would be a gold mine for them if tied in with outside systems (your online shopping habits, any subscriptions, ...). Unless it's tied in with non-retail-related systems it's not really a threat. It is invasive and impersonal--comparable to having someone follow you around watching your movements and interests and taking notes in the same book every time you're in the mall. Most off us would tell them what to go do with themselves before the first visit was through, I think.

[Top Gun]

It kind of reminds me of what Valve's been able to do with some of their Source Engine titles: they can actively plot the points on the map where players move and die most frequently in a game like TF2, and then use that to influence how they design maps in the future. In a real-world equivalent, casinos are well-known for designing layouts that keep people playing for as long as possible. Of course the game-related equivalents are a lot less eyebrow-raising than the real-life ones.

[Heretic]

I never play at a casino sure have eaten in a few. Some of the best places to eat are in a casino. My wife has almost walked out on the floor of them citing "Oh the pretty lights". Something about all the flashing lights and sounds try to lure you out on the floor to play. Flashing lights sure attract your attention. Casino games have long-term advantage to the casino. So why waste money where you are most likely be the loser.

Edit off topic sorry

[Top Gun]

Oh yeah, exactly. I never saw the point in gambling at a casino myself, especially slot machines. Might as well just toss your quarters in a fountain for all the good it does.