AI companies and data brokers even resort to fake forms to keep selling our data

A privacy audit of 38 data-collecting firms found widespread tactics that make opting out difficult or confusing.

Researchers said companies used misleading forms, hidden links, multi-step flows, and even account or payment requirements.

The report named Google, Meta, and OpenAI, and said people-search brokers often offer no real opt-out at all.

The findings point to broad consumer privacy abuse and add pressure for stronger U.S. privacy laws.