RentTech platforms must stop unfair and excessive personal information collection
Digital Rights Watch has a long history of campaigning against the excessive and unfair collection of personal information through ‘Renttech’ platforms.
We applaud the Privacy Commissioner’s determination that the “2Apply rental technology platform … collected excessive personal information and did so by unfair means.”
The Commissioner found that the Renttech platform, using the power imbalance that exists between a prospective renter and real estate agents in a national housing crisis, forced vulnerable renters to hand over unnecessary amounts of personal information. Renters feel no choice but to provide copious amounts of information in whatever form they are asked.
This decision must lead to broader reform where the regulatory framework for RentTech preserves renters’ digital rights, in particular to privacy, non-discrimination and digital security, and has a core principle of data minimisation.
We’d like to recognise Sam Floreani, who continues her great research work in this space.
Quotes attributable to Tom Sulston, Head of Policy:
“Renters are keenly aware of the privacy and security risks that digital intermediaries pose to their personal information. Yet in the midst of an ongoing housing crisis, with an immense power imbalance between renters, real estate agents and landlords, many renters feel no choice but to provide copious amounts of private information. The Privacy Commissioner’s decision shows that this situation must change."
“31% of Australians rent their home. It’s vital that we take strong action to protect their personal data and privacy from misuse by digital intermediaries and real estate agents.“
Media contact for interview:
media@digitalrightswatch.org.au
Tom Sulston: +61 448335466