Hi Jacqui D,
There is absolutely nothing new in this idea, except for the fact that it is electronically done.
It's called Household Marketing.
The simplest form is when many small shop keepers keep records of their clients to inform them of new items that have come in to the shop, or to wish them happy birthday to remind them that they exist.
But in the more complex world, everything you do as a consumer is stored in data banks being sold by marketing companies. Each time you use your credit card, every time you enter in a competition at your local supermarket or take advantage of that offer by that famous brand name you like so much where you have to send them a witty slogan.
They record your name, your address, postal code, telephone number, even what you purchase was.
Even if a family member enters in a competition in a competitors supermarket or takes advantage of that offer where they have to fill in a coupon, everything is noted.
Then the serious marketers who buy this information can cross reference and get a pretty good idea of you and your family (how many family members, their ages, names, een you most recent purchases etc.) simply by referencing things like your postal code, your surname, or other information that they deem interesting.
That's why we get special offers popping through the door from time to time.
They know which neighbourhood you're from, more or less how much the family income is, if you have a car etc.
It can get quite complex, depending on how much these companies are willing to spend for the information and their need for the information.
It's been going on for years, so don't worry and njoy the show!
Best regards,
Steve
Quote:
Originally Posted by Jacqui D
How do you feel about your privacy being invaded another BIG BROTHER tactic or would it be a good idea to track the more seedy side to internet browsing!
Internet ad tracking system will put a 'spy camera' in the homes of millions, warns founder of the web
By Sean Poulter
Last updated at 7:19 PM on 11th March 2009
Comments (-) Add to My Stories
The British inventor of the internet has launched a damning attack on plans by BT and other communications firms to spy on the web-surfing habits of up to 11million households.
|