AI de-anonymizes private location data for $2.24

Researchers at the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland have demonstrated that supposedly anonymous location data can be easily de-anonymized using artificial intelligence. The study shows that an AI can identify specific individuals from GPS movement patterns by recognizing recurring patterns, such as locations where a device stays overnight or during work hours.

By cross-referencing these patterns with publicly available information, the AI successfully identified 18 out of 25 test subjects. In cases where the system provided a specific name, it was correct in 18 out of 19 instances. On average, the process required only 17 minutes and cost approximately $2.24 per person, highlighting significant privacy risks regarding the commercial sale of location data.