A new system to track shoppers by following consumers’ cell phones through malls and stores is under scrutiny for its potential to invade the privacy of customers. U.S. Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-New York) called on the Federal Trade Commission to investigate whether this monitoring system could be at odds with federal privacy regulations. Company Path Intelligence, creators of “FootPath technology,” use antennas set up throughout a mall or...
While Groupon has made a name for itself in the world of super-sized discounts on restaurants, takeout, and other services, 2011 seems to be the year the company gets more than it bargained for. On top of multiple lawsuits around the country, state officials are now investigating the Chicago-based company’s business practices. In a letter to Groupon’s CEO, Connecticut Attorney General George Jepsen posed more than 20 questions to...
Consumers could be giving away more than they bargain for when they turn in their computers and related equipment to Staples, according to consumer protection advocates. According to a new report, the previous owners’ private information is showing up on some of Staples’ resold electronics. Officials in at least one state are pressing the home- and office-supply giant for more information about what exactly it does to wipe private...
