The Federal Trade Commission has taken decisive action against digital marketing and data aggregator InMarket, finalizing a settlement that prohibits the company from selling or sharing precise location data. This move follows allegations of unlawful collection and use of consumers' location data for advertising and marketing purposes.

According to the FTC, InMarket was found to have collected location information about consumers without fully informing them of how it would be used. This data, which includes sensitive details about where individuals live, work, and worship, was combined with other information to target advertising based on consumer behavior. Additionally, the company failed to ensure that third-party apps using its software development kit obtained informed consent from consumers.

As part of the settlement, InMarket is now bound by restrictions that prevent the sale, sharing, or licensing of precise location data and any products or services that utilize sensitive location information for targeting consumers. The company is also required to delete or destroy all previously collected location data unless consumer consent is obtained or the data is deidentified. Furthermore, provisions mandate the establishment of mechanisms for consumers to withdraw consent for data collection and to request the deletion of any previously collected location data.

The settlement was approved with a 3-0-2 vote by the Commission, with Commissioners Melissa Holyoak and Andrew N. Ferguson abstaining from voting on the matter. This action underscores the FTC's commitment to promoting fair competition and safeguarding consumer interests.

InMarket's compliance with the order and its adherence to the stipulated restrictions will be closely monitored to ensure consumer privacy and data protection are upheld. The Federal Trade Commission continues its mission to educate and protect consumers, urging individuals to stay informed about their rights and report any fraudulent activities or deceptive practices.

Through initiatives like this settlement with InMarket, the FTC aims to maintain a transparent and accountable marketplace where consumer data is handled responsibly and ethically.