By JESSA LEWIS
6 News Reporter
KNOXVILLE (WATE) - Cell phone companies are selling your information to marketing companies, but there are ways you can avoid being included.
Most people probably don't realize what information they give out on a daily basis, especially on smart phones.
"I think people are doing it, and it's not so much that they're willingly giving up their privacy. They're doing it in exchange for the convenience you get in return," said Rick Laney, vice president of Ackermann PR.
Marketing experts say this form of data collection isn't all that different from what's been done in the past.
"Web history is not too different, again, from what other companies have been doing for quite awhile. There was a lot of discussion and controversy over Apple's tracking," Laney said.
Nonetheless, wireless customers aren't so sure they want third parties to have that information.
"It should be an optional thing, and since Verizon is making it an option, I am very appreciative of that. If they just did it without asking, I would have a big time problem with that," said Michael Masonis.
Downloaded apps will account for some of your transferred information.
"Most of the apps that you have that people rarely read the information, it tells you by agreeing to this and downloading this app, here's the information we're going to be given whether it's a music site or a shopping site. Most people scroll through that and hit download," Laney said.
Companies like Verizon are not selling your phone number, but they will sell cell phone locations, records about what types of websites you visit and other consumer information.
Smart phone user Tyler Anthony compared it to the way Facebook ads work.
"I've always heard how Facebook can take your personal information and give that to marketers and advertisers, and then they will in turn, personalize those ads to you and your demographic," Anthony said.
Verizon has information posted on how to change your privacy settings, or you can call 1-866-211-0874.
AT&T also has information online on controlling privacy settings.
