FTC BANS KOCHAVA FROM SELLING LOCATION DATA

Kochava and CDS collected location data from mobile apps and devices, then sold it to clients without consumers' knowledge or permission. The FTC alleged the practice violated consumer protection laws by enabling tracking of individuals' movements and sensitive locations. Under the settlement, the companies must obtain affirmative consent before selling location data and implement a data retention policy limiting how long they store geolocation information. They are also required to delete previously collected location data. The ban marks the FTC's continued enforcement against data brokers operating in the shadows of the digital economy. Location data has become a flashpoint for privacy advocates, as it can reveal detailed information about individuals' routines, health conditions, and personal relationships. Kochava is one of the largest location data providers in the U.S., aggregating information from hundreds of millions of devices. The settlement sends a clear message that the agency will target companies profiting from unregulated collection and sale of sensitive consumer data.