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NYC Council passes ban on 'surveillance pricing' that relies on personal data
Gothamist • • business
Key Points:
- New York City Council passed a bill banning surveillance pricing, which uses algorithms and personal data to charge different prices to shoppers both online and in stores.
- Surveillance pricing is criticized for being predatory and unfair, with examples such as Target charging higher prices based on a shopper’s location inside or near a store.
- The bill allows the city to fine companies up to $1,000 per transaction that violates the ban, following similar legislation recently approved by New York state lawmakers.
- Mayor Zohran Mamdani supports the ban, emphasizing that personal data should not be exploited to increase costs for consumers, while some business groups warn it could limit discounts and loyalty programs.
- Council Speaker Julie Menin clarified that the legislation will not affect legitimate discounts offered by businesses.
