US Airline May Sell Passenger Data to Advertisers: Report
An Ominous Report: United Airlines Considers Selling Passenger Information to Advertisers
A recent report from the Wall Street Journal has sparked concern among travelers, especially those flying with United Airlines. The report sheds light on two pressing issues of the digital age: privacy and data.
According to the Journal, United is contemplating the use of passenger data for targeted advertising. This move aligns with a growing trend of companies leveraging user data for advertising purposes.
While the initial description may not sound overly intrusive, the potential implications are significant. For instance, an advertiser could recommend a movie to a passenger who frequently visits the company’s theme parks and has recently redeemed miles for merchandise from that company.
This data could also be used to display targeted ads on in-flight entertainment or when customers use the airline app to book tickets and check-in.
Despite United’s plans to allow customers to opt out of data collection, the reaction on social media has been mixed. Some users are urging people to avoid flying with United and refrain from using the company’s apps due to privacy concerns.
Don’t fly @united and never install an airline’s app. https://t.co/L3StXKi8G5
— Rollin Reisinger (@RollinReisinger) November 22, 2023
On the other hand, some users believe this move is expected and wonder why it took United so long to enter the retail media advertising game.
100% obvious move. all airlines will follow. airplanes are basically an efficient way to gather a captive, wealthy, personally identifiable audience.
what took them so long to do this?
“United Airlines Weighs Using Passenger Data to Sell Targeted Ads”https://t.co/aYEuwabkcL
— Quinn Slack (@sqs) November 22, 2023
Opinions on social media range from those who see no issue with the data sale to those who are deeply concerned about the sale of their personal information.
This report adds to the list of challenges United Airlines has faced in recent years, including layoffs, halted vaccine mandates, and faulty plane parts.
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The post Major US Airline Considers Selling Passenger Information to Advertisers: Report appeared first on The Western Journal.
What steps can individuals take to protect their privacy and advocate for stronger data protection measures in the face of companies leveraging user data for advertising purposes
Ng? #facebook #advertising
— Amelia Knox (@amelia_knox) November 22, 2023
United Airlines is not the first company to consider using customer data for targeted advertising. Tech giants like Google and Facebook have been doing it for years, often prompting debates about privacy and data protection. However, the airline industry poses unique challenges and concerns in this regard.
One major concern raised by privacy advocates is the handling and security of passenger data. Airlines are entrusted with sensitive information such as names, addresses, and even credit card details, all of which could be targeted by hackers or misused if not properly safeguarded.
Additionally, some argue that the collection and usage of such data without explicit consent infringes upon passengers’ right to privacy. Airlines are not typically viewed as advertising platforms, and passengers may feel uncomfortable with the idea of their personal information being shared with third-party advertisers.
United Airlines faces a delicate balancing act as it considers the potential financial gains of selling customer data against the potential backlash and loss of trust from its customers. It must carefully weigh the benefits and risks and take into account the evolving landscape of privacy regulations and public opinion surrounding data usage.
For travelers, this report serves as a reminder that their personal information is valuable currency in the digital age. It highlights the importance of being mindful and cautious about the data we share with companies, especially those with whom we may not ordinarily associate data collection.
As companies continue to find innovative ways to leverage user data for advertising, individuals should educate themselves about their rights and take steps to protect their privacy. They should also support and advocate for robust privacy regulations that hold companies accountable for protecting customer information and obtaining proper consent before utilizing it for targeted advertising.
United Airlines’ potential move to sell passenger information to advertisers raises significant concerns about privacy and data protection. It underscores the need for individuals, companies, and regulators to have a thoughtful and ongoing conversation about the ethical and responsible use of customer data in the digital era.
Ultimately, the decision lies with United Airlines and how it chooses to navigate the complex landscape of privacy and advertising. In the meantime, travelers must be vigilant and informed consumers, always weighing the benefits and risks of sharing their personal information with companies and advocating for stronger data protection measures for their own security and peace of mind.
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