FTC Opens Probe Into Surveillance Pricing That Targets Individuals

Companies may be using personal information such as browsing history and location to determine the cost of purchases.

The Federal Trade Commission building in Washington on Sept. 19, 2006. Paul J. Richards/AFP via Getty Images

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is looking into how firms are using surveillance pricing to charge different prices to different customers.

Surveillance pricing involves advanced algorithms, artificial intelligence (AI), and other technology, combined with consumers’ personal data such as credit history, location, and browsing history to set prices for individuals.