Australia's Rental Market Exacerbated by Excessive Data Collection: A Systemic Analysis of Power Dynamics
Original framing: “Rental platform unnecessarily collected the data of millions of Australians, privacy commissioner finds” — The Guardian - World
The history of data collection in the rental market dates back to the 19th century, when landlords began using data to discriminate against tenants based on their social class and ethnicity. The over-collection of personal information by 2Apply is a continuation of this historical trend, highlighting the need for a more nuanced understanding of the power dynamics at play.
The over-collection of personal information by 2Apply reflects a broader issue of power dynamics in the rental market, where the real estate industry holds significant influence and control.
The Australian government's failure to regulate data collection practices has allowed rental platforms like 2Apply to exploit tenants' personal data, exacerbating the housing crisis and perpetuating social inequality. To address this issue, the Australian government should invest in data protection infrastructure, develop culturally sensitive data protection policies, promote data literacy and awareness, and regulate data collection practices in the rental market.