Avast fined for illegitimate sale of web data

The United States Federal Trade Commission has imposed a fine of $16.5 million on Avast, a well-known cybersecurity company, for inappropriate practices in selling users' web browsing data for advertising purposes. In addition to the fine, Avast is banned from selling or sharing that data in the future.

Avast accused of unauthorized data collection

Avast is accused of having collected data on consumers' browsing in a non-transparent manner and without their explicit consent, thus belying its promises to protect users' privacy. The highly detailed information collected included sensitive data such as religious beliefs, health conditions and other private preferences of individuals.

Deceptive practices and violations of privacy

Contrary to Avast's claims of preventing third-party tracking, the company was found guilty of selling this detailed browsing data to over 100 third parties through its subsidiary Jumpshot. This constituted a profound violation of privacy and business ethics, as emphasized by the FTC.

Terms of Settlement with FTC

In addition to the financial penalty, Avast was required to obtain explicit consent from users before it can process their data, it will also have to delete previously collected information and adopt a new privacy policy. Avast disagreed with the allegations but was committed to resolving the matter and continuing its mission to protect consumers.