You give companies a little bit of yourself every time you scroll, click, tap, or type. That may sound strange, but it’s true. And while they make money off your data, all you get are ads that follow you around. But what if you could get a piece of that?
You can, it turns out. You can make money from the things you already do online in real, working ways. No strange scams or rocket science. Some people make as much as $500 a year just by letting apps or websites use their data.
Ways to Earn From Your Data
1. Take Quick Surveys for Cash
Sites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and Prolific pay for your opinions. You sign up, answer questions, and earn gift cards or real money. Some surveys pay a few cents, others a few dollars. Stick with it, and it adds up.
Estimated Earnings: $50 to $200 a year
2. Let Apps Track You Anonymously
Apps like Tapestri, Nielsen, or MobileXpression track your shopping and browsing habits. They promise to keep things anonymous. You earn just by using your phone like you normally would.
Estimated Earnings: $100 to $300 a year
3. Sell Your Data Directly
Sites like SafeGraph or Reklaim let you upload and sell your data. You’re basically saying, “Sure, you can look at this—for a price.” This method can pay more, especially if you have detailed data like purchase history or location tracking.
Estimated Earnings: Up to $500 a year
4. Join Studies and Tests
Have you ever used a new app or answered questions for a research team? Prolific and other sites will pay you for that. Some jobs are quick, while others take longer and pay better.
Per Session: $6 to $100
Safety Tips to Keep in Mind
It depends on who you’re dealing with. Some companies are solid; others, not so much. Before signing up, read the fine print. Don’t hand over sensitive information like banking details or government IDs. Use strong passwords, check app permissions, and use a VPN if you’re serious about privacy.
Types of Data You Can Sell
You can earn money from sharing:
- Browsing history
- Shopping habits
- Location data
- App usage
- Fitness tracker info
Just choose what you’re comfortable sharing.
Tips to Maximize Earnings
- Sign up for multiple platforms
- Check for surveys regularly
- Answer honestly
- Refer friends if the app pays for it
- Look for higher-paying studies
If you treat it like a side job, even a lazy one, it will pay off more over time.e.
Summary of Earning From Your Data
Your information is already out there on the internet, so why not make some money off of it? You can make a few hundred dollars a year by using safe platforms, keeping an eye on your privacy settings, and deciding what to share. It’s not a full-time job, but it’s a simple and passive way to make extra money. Be careful, consistent, and picky about the chances you take.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this legal?
Yes, it’s legal as long as the platforms you use are legitimate and you follow their terms. Reputable sites explain how they use your data and offer opt-out options. Still, research each platform before signing up to make sure your information stays protected.
Do I have to pay taxes on this money?
In most cases, yes. Earnings from surveys, data-sharing apps, and studies are considered taxable income. Track what you earn and report it during tax season. If unsure, talk to a tax professional.
Can I stop anytime?
Yes, you can opt out of most platforms whenever you want. You can usually find this in the settings for your account. Just be sure to read their terms. Some platforms will keep data that has already been collected, while others will delete it if you ask.
What happens if a company misuses my data?
If a company misuses your data, it may be violating privacy laws, depending on where you live. You can report them to agencies like the ftc in the U.S. To avoid this, use a vpn, read privacy policies, and stick to well-reviewed platforms. Always manage your data permissions wisely.
Updated by Albert Fang
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