Worried you’re being overcharged when shopping online? Listen to this
Summary
Host Mariel Sagarra discusses the rise of algorithmic and surveillance pricing with Lindsay Owens, author of "Gouged." They explore how big tech uses data to charge consumers personalized prices, citing examples like JetBlue’s controversial tweet and Instacart’s hidden pricing experiments. The episode offers practical tips for fighting back, such as using VPNs, clearing browser cookies, and comparison shopping across multiple devices to avoid overpaying.
Topics discussed
Intro: The end of fair pricing and dynamic prices
JetBlue's 'clear your cache' tweet and surveillance pricing
Sponsors and episode overview
Cost-plus pricing vs. dynamic auctioning (World Cup)
Surveillance pricing: Location-based price discrimination
Instacart's hidden A/B testing on grocery prices
Sponsors and transition to consumer tips
Tip 1: Avoid shopping via apps and loyalty programs
Tip 2: Advanced comparison shopping across devices
Tip 3: Using VPNs to mask location and test prices
Tip 4: Clearing cookies and browsing history
Tip 5: Breaking purchase patterns to avoid profiling
Tip 6: Limiting app permissions and data sharing
Tip 7: Shopping in person vs. electronic shelf labels
Personal strategies and the frustration of modern pricing
Recap of key takeaways
Credits and call to action
Sponsors: DonorsChoose, Instacart, and Throughline
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