Penza told how to find out what data about them collects online service

Users of online services have the right to request information from the company about what data is collected about them and for what purposes. This also applies to data on their behavior within the application. This was told by Marina Kholod, Candidate of Economic Sciences and Associate Professor of the Department of Finance for Sustainable Development of the Plekhanov REU.

The expert explained that data about the time spent in the application, the frequency of its opening and response to notifications are also considered personal data if they are linked to an account or device. According to the law on personal data, the user has the right to know what information is collected about him and for what, and the company is obliged to provide a response within 10 working days.

Marina Kholod reminded that from September 1, 2025, consent to the processing of personal data will be issued in a separate document, and not included in other papers. It should be clear and specific. Large services using recommendation technologies are obliged to publish the rules for their use and the list of data collected.

If the application does not have a button to upload data, the expert recommends a written request. The received response or its absence can be useful when contacting Roskomnadzor. These rules also apply to foreign companies working with Russian audiences, although it is more difficult to get them to comply with the requirements.