Investigation finds Irish phone location data for sale
The Data Protection Commission (DPC) described the findings as ‘extremely concerning,’ noting that detailed location data can pose serious risks to people’s safety and well-being.
An undercover investigation by RTÉ’s Prime Time has revealed that the precise movements of tens of thousands of smartphones in Ireland are being sold by companies in the digital marketing and advertising industry. The discovery has sparked alarm among privacy experts, lawmakers, and security officials.
Journalists posing as data buyers were offered a dataset tracking 64,000 phones in Ireland over a two-week period. The information was detailed enough to trace individuals from workplaces such as Leinster House, prisons, and military bases back to their home addresses, showing daily routines including shopping trips and leisure activities. Brokers also indicated that such data could be sold as a live feed, with only a short delay.
The Data Protection Commission (DPC) described the findings as ‘extremely concerning,’ noting that detailed location data can pose serious risks to people’s safety and well-being. If the brokers operate from Ireland, the DPC pledged to act directly; if they are based in another EU country, it will coordinate with European counterparts.
Why does it matter?
Security experts warned that such information could expose the identities and routines of sensitive personnel, including members of the Defence Forces. Dr. Cathal Berry, a former Army officer, described the practice as ‘wrong and dangerous,’ adding that adversaries could exploit the data. The Defence Forces confirmed it already takes steps to minimise electronic traces in critical locations, but said it will continue reviewing policies to address new risks.
Civil society voices, including the Irish Council for Civil Liberties, argued that the issue highlights failures of enforcement. Johnny Ryan of ICCL said the DPC has long had the power to act against data exploitation but has failed to use it effectively. Politicians also expressed concern: Fine Gael TD Barry Ward, whose staff member’s phone appeared in the leaked dataset, said parliament should be prepared to strengthen laws if current safeguards prove inadequate.
