The Information Commissioner’s Office has warned people against mindlessly handing over personal data when ordering at hospitality venues, after the practice became commonplace during the pandemic.
“I think it’s too easy to upload an app and straight away put your name, email address, payment details in, without actually understanding fully where that information may be shared and why it’s being used,” said Suzanne Gordon, director of data protection at the ICO.
“Ultimately this is your data, it’s your personal information and you need to be confident when you’re handing it over and the reasons why.”
The warning came as UK restaurants and bars start reverting to pre-pandemic style service. Many venues, however, are keeping their online ordering in place.
“Customers need to understand they do have a choice. We’re now coming out of the pandemic and there’s the ability to order on the app or in the more traditional way,” said Ms Gordon.
“I think it is very easy for people just to see the end product, and because they want that, they really don’t question the amount of data that they are being asked for.”
Do you ever think twice about handing over your data, or are you not worried about sharing your personal information? Let us know your thoughts in the comments and we’ll feature you on the website tomorrow.
