Want to Opt Out of Your Data Being Sold, Shared or Used? Good Luck

EPIC says 38 major platforms and data brokers use confusing or manipulative opt-out designs to discourage privacy choices.

Tactics include hidden links, multi-step forms, paywalls, and preselected settings that make limiting data collection harder.

The report names companies such as Google, Meta, Amazon, TikTok, OpenAI, and several data brokers and apps.

EPIC warns these barriers can leave personal data more exposed to misuse, stalking, and harassment, even where state laws require opt-out rights.