Did you know that Comcast's Xfinity can store your sensitive information? This means that this internet service can actually know who Americans are planning to vote for in presidential elections.
Aside from this, Comcast can also identify the gender of the last person who last visited your house. This is because when consumers enroll in Comcast's Xfinity, they will automatically be opted into the ISP's personal data collection.
Others might be okay with this. But, if you want to protect your sensitive details, here's what you need to know and what you can do.
Comcast's Xfinity Stores Your Personal Data
If you visit the official Comcast website, then you will learn that its Xfinity service really collects sensitive user information.
These include names, email addresses, identifiers, postal addresses, personal identifiers, etc. Aside from these, Xfinity also collects other more sensitive details, such as race, political affiliation, philosophical beliefs, ethnicity, etc.
However, Comcast's Xfinity clarified that it doesn't sell this personal user information to third-parties.
"We do not sell information that identifies who you are to anyone," said the ISP.
This data-tracking activity of Comcast's Xfinity could be a big deal for many users, especially since a serious cybersecurity breach was announced in December 2023.
Over 35 million Xfinity users were affected during that time. Details stolen by hackers include passwords, usernames, etc. This is why it is important for users to know how to opt out of Xfinity's data-tracking activity.
Read Also : FTC's Click-To-Cancel Rule Disappoints Cable, Broadband Companies; Lobbyists Demand Better Options
How To Opt Out of Xfinity's Data Storage
The Wired explained how Comcast users can opt out of Xfinity's data-tracking activity. However, before you do that, you should know that you will be required to provide your email, mobile number, and physical location.
If you're fine with this, here are the steps you can follow to opt out:
- Visit Xfinity's Privacy Center and scroll down until you reach the Review your privacy preferences section.
- Choose the "Manage your information" option to see what sensitive details are being tracked.
- After that, find the "Sensitive personal information preferences" section and click the "Review settings" button.
- You will be required to fill out a form. Once you're done, click the Continue button.
- After that, look for the "Storage and usage of sensitive personal information" option and turn it off.
