Navigating Online Shopping and the Klarna Privacy Conundrum
Today’s digital landscape has transformed the way we shop, offering unparalleled convenience and access to a world of products with just a few clicks. However, it’s essential to remain vigilant, particularly when it comes to third-party payment processors like Klarna, which have become increasingly prevalent in the online shopping experience.
While attempting to make an online purchase, I encountered a discount store that insisted on the use of “Klarna,” leaving no room for Visa or Mastercard transactions. This was my first cause for concern. If I was to proceed with the purchase, I would have unwittingly consented to Klarna’s terms and conditions—a document worth delving into (you can find it here).
Section 3 of Klarna’s terms and conditions is particularly eye-opening, as it outlines the myriad ways in which they collect and utilise your data. Some of the most disconcerting points include:
- Contact and identification data: This category encompasses the usual details such as name and address, but it goes further, extending to employment history, audio recordings, photos, video recordings of you, and even your ID card.
- Information about your financial standing: Klarna delves into your financial history, including income, credit status, negative payment history, and previous credit approvals.
- Device information: Klarna collects device-related data, including device ID, IP address, language settings, browser settings, time zone, operating system, platform, screen resolution, and similar information about your device and its usage.
However, the most striking revelation lies in the category of “Sensitive personal data,” which encompasses information related to religious beliefs, political or philosophical views, trade union membership, as well as data pertaining to health, sex life, sexual orientation, and even biometric data.
Upon attempting to seek clarification by calling their customer service, I was met with a recorded message indicating that “this call will be digitally analysed and deleted after 24 hours.” This raises questions about the use of voice recognition and analysis software for mere customer inquiries.
In essence, the quest to purchase a simple every day item online seemed to come with an unexpected price—the potential surrender of one’s personal data and privacy.
The Remedy: Safeguarding Your Privacy
Adopting a privacy-conscious approach to online shopping can be challenging, given the dominance of e-commerce and its impact on local retailers. However, here are some steps you can consider:
- Buy Locally: Support local businesses and shops whenever possible, contributing to the vitality of your community.
- Pay with Cash: Opt for traditional payment methods like cash for added privacy and security.
- Reject Retailers that Force Klarna: Choose online retailers that respect your choice of payment methods and do not impose third-party processors.
- Exercise Your Data Rights: If you have used Klarna or similar services, consider requesting data erasure and withdrawing your consent for data collection and processing.
- Prioritise Privacy: If online shopping is a necessity, consider doing so from privacy-protecting devices and technology. We specialise in this domain and can provide guidance on safeguarding your digital privacy.
In an age where convenience often comes at the cost of personal data, it’s vital to strike a balance between the benefits of online shopping and the protection of your privacy. Stay informed, make mindful choices, and take steps to preserve your digital autonomy.
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