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Just How Free is That “Free” Giftcard?

Occasionally, I hear from clients who are upset about the sudden increase of unwanted email shortly after they sign up for a “free” giftcard. Let’s take a look and see just how free that giftcard is. On one web site, there is a link labeled, “Take survey/Gift Card,” which leads to another web site, with an offer to complete a short questionnaire for a chance to win a giftcard. It couldn’t be easier! Agree to their terms of service, provide your email address and year of birth, and get ready to take the survey. Next, provide basic biographic/demographic information, such as name, date of birth, address, telephone number, gender, marital status, employment status, occupation, etc., and you’re on your way. Wait a minute. That’s a lot of information they are asking for. Perhaps it’s time to take a look at their privacy policy. As is frequently the case, this particular vendor shares personal information with third-party marketers. Of course, you are free to “opt-out” at any time, but must “opt-out” separately with the third-party marketers with whom they have shared your information. Oh, and by the way, they cannot vouch for the privacy policies of those with whom they have shared your information.

Now may be a good time to look into a good spam filter or another email address.

Posted in Privacy.

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2 Responses

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  1. KonstantinMiller says

    How soon will you update your blog? I’m interested in reading some more information on this issue.

  2. Craig Herberg says

    Probably at least once a week. Privacy is both a field of expertise and passion for me.