FTC orders Delta, Walmart and others to disclose use of personal data in pricing

The Federal Trade Commission has ordered companies including Delta Air Lines, Walmart, United, JetBlue, Lyft, DoorDash, Instacart, and Target to provide detailed information on how they use consumers' personal data to set prices and how they compensate gig workers, according to FOX 5 DC and WTOP.

The FTC is investigating whether prices for tickets, rides, food delivery, and other products vary between individuals based on factors such as loyalty program participation or personal data analysis. It is also studying if companies use personal data like phone usage or work history to determine pay for independent drivers and delivery workers.

Delta responded by stating it has zero tolerance for discriminatory pricing and complies fully with pricing laws, denying any use of personal data to offer individualized fares. JetBlue said it does not use personal information or browsing history to set prices, with fares determined by demand and seat availability. Instacart said it bases shopper pay on job-related factors and does not use consumer personal information to set prices.

The FTC has indicated it may compel compliance through federal court if companies fail to provide the requested data, highlighting increased scrutiny on pricing transparency and fairness in industries affecting Washington DC area consumers and workers.