Data Brokers selling your info for less than a rupee

Are data brokers selling info for less than a rupee? 

This question assumes significance as many of us receive emails and phone calls from locations which we never know about. The truth is that data brokers are doing so and your personal data, be it the residential address, email id or your profession details, all are available online.  

A sting operation has revealed that how personal information of up to 1 Lakh people is available from 10,000 to 15,000. The big question now arises that how data are brokers selling all the info for less than a rupee. A broker from an NCR firm said that phone companies easily sell the personal information of their customers. Additionally, car dealers, banks, and insurance agents are also the culprits in such cases.

Data broking has become a major business these days with the global turnover of this industry being $200 billion. The solution lies in adopting a cautious approach while filling free discount coupons and signing up for holiday packages. In India however, this industry is in its nascent stage and if it is tapped suitably by authorities, the problem can decrease significantly. However, globally it has to be seen in a wider perspective and people should take self-precautions to avoid this problem.