Cox Media fined after bragging it spied on users through their phones

The FTC fined Cox Media, MindSift, and 1010 Digital Works $930,000 over false ad-targeting claims.

The companies allegedly said they could use voice data from phones and smart devices, but actually resold email lists from data brokers.

Regulators said they lacked valid consumer consent and misled advertisers and consumers about how the service worked.

The case underscores stricter FTC scrutiny of deceptive ad-tech and privacy claims, especially around supposed device listening.