Some retailers sell consumer information back to the data brokers which then sell it to other companies
Some retailers sell consumer information back to the data brokers which then sell it to other companies
Some retailers sell consumer information back to the data brokers which then sell it to other companies.

[CNN MONEY]

Every time you mindlessly give a sales clerk your zip code at checkout, you’re giving data companies and retailers the ability to track everything from your body type to your bad habits.

That five-digit zip code is one of the key items data brokers use to link a wealth of public records to what you buy. They can figure out whether you’re getting married (or divorced), selling your home, smoke cigarettes, sending a kid off to college or about to have one.

Find out why stores want your zip code at CNN Money.

NNPAFreddie

Freddie Allen is the National News Editor for the NNPA News Wire and BlackPressUSA.com. 200-plus Black newspapers. 20 million readers. You should follow Freddie on Twitter and Instagram @freddieallenjr.