States begin banning ‘surveillance pricing’ that uses personal data to charge more

States are taking steps to regulate a pricing practice that uses personal data to charge consumers more for goods and services. Maryland, New Jersey, and Connecticut have enacted laws that ban "surveillance pricing," a practice where retailers use data on customers' shopping habits, location, and other personal information to adjust prices. This move is significant as it marks a growing concern among lawmakers about the use of consumer data by businesses.

The laws in Maryland and New Jersey specifically target grocery stores, while Connecticut's law applies more broadly to retailers. This variation in scope may reflect differences in each state's priorities and the types of businesses that are most prevalent within their borders. The regulations are likely to have implications for companies that rely heavily on data-driven pricing strategies, and may lead to changes in how businesses collect and use consumer data.

As more states consider similar legislation, businesses will need to adapt to a changing regulatory landscape. Companies that use surveillance pricing may need to reevaluate their data collection and pricing practices to ensure compliance with state laws. Consumers, meanwhile, may benefit from greater transparency and protection from price manipulation. To watch next: how other states respond to the trend, and whether federal legislation on surveillance pricing may be forthcoming.

Originally reported by route-fifty.com. ExecutiveNews adds analysis for government & civic readers.