RENTAL PLATFORM COLLECTED EXCESSIVE DATA ON MILLIONS

The Australian Privacy Commissioner determined that 2Apply gathered excessive personal data beyond what was necessary for its operations. Privacy Commissioner Carly Kind stated the practice compounds tenant vulnerability in a market already favoring landlords and real estate interests. The findings highlight how data collection practices can exacerbate existing power dynamics in competitive markets. Renters, already facing housing shortages and affordability challenges, face additional disadvantages when platforms collect unnecessary personal information. The commissioner has urged the rental platform to cease excessive data gathering. The case underscores ongoing concerns about how digital platforms handle user data and the broader implications for vulnerable populations navigating tight rental markets. The decision adds to regulatory pressure on tech companies to justify data collection practices and minimize gathering to only essential information.