Verizon customers can now choose to opt-out of a controversial advertising program that used so-called “supercookies,” with the carrier making good on a promise it issued earlier this year. Like more traditional Internet cookies, supercookies track users’ online behavior to serve them up targeted advertisements, but unlike regular cookies, supercookies are impossible for users to delete.
Verizon promised to offer an way for customers to opt-out of the program after privacy and consumer advocates said supercookies were too invasive. Some lawmakers also began questioning Verizon executives over the process.
A Verizon spokeswoman told The New York Times:
As the mobile advertising ecosystem evolves, and our advertising business grows, delivering solutions with best-in-class privacy protections remains our focus. As a reminder, we never share information with third parties that identifies our customers as part of our advertising programs.
Customers can opt out of the program, called “Relevant Mobile Advertising,” by visiting Verizon’s website or by calling 1-866-211-0874.
Verizon in January reported quarterly a loss in earnings of $2.15 billion, or 54 centers a share. That’s compared with earnings of $.92 billion, or $1.76 per share a year earlier after changes to its benefits plans. But the company reported revenue was up 6.8% with an increase in subscribers “who pay for services after use,” according to Reuters.
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