Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Grocery Coupon Guide
Grocery Coupon Guide
Shay Huntley

These “Safe” Coupons Are Actually Tracking Your Spending Habits

Manufacturer coupons seem like a simple and safe way to save money. They are distributed by the brand itself, either in the newspaper or through “print-at-home” websites. However, these seemingly harmless pieces of paper are often embedded with hidden tracking technology. This technology allows the company to collect a surprising amount of data about your shopping habits. That coupon is not just a discount; it is a tiny, paper-based surveillance device.

Image Source: Shutterstock

The Hidden Barcode Data

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.