Rental apps use false data demands to harvest renter information
Rental platforms use deceptive design to pressure renters into providing unnecessary personal data for rental applications.
Rental platforms are using tricky design methods called 'dark patterns'. These methods force renters to hand over unnecessary personal data.
A new Consumer Policy Research Centre report found one platform using a personality quiz to screen applicants based on 'agreeableness'. Rental platforms force renters to pay for add-ons like rewards programs with little real value.
In April, Australia's privacy commissioner ruled that rental platform 2Apply was collecting too much personal data through deliberately misleading design. Victoria introduced new rental laws in March that ban invasive questions and third-party fees for rent payments and ID checks.
After these laws took effect, major platforms improved their practices. But research shows the same deceptive tactics continue in Australian states outside Victoria.
This leaves most renters still at risk.
- April, against 2Apply
- Commissioner ruling
- March
- Victoria law date
- 2Apply
- Platform scrutinised
- dark patterns
- Design tactics found
Why it mattersMost renters have no choice but to use these platforms. They have little control over their data. Deceptive design exploits that unfair situation.
AustraliaFor renters in most of Australia, particularly outside Victoria, rental platforms continue to harvest excessive data and impose questionable charges.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 4 d ago
