That “Free” Soda Ain’t Free: Digital Privacy and Apps in 2025
- Al Davis
- Sep 5
- 2 min read
How Circle K made me rethink convenience, data, and the price we really pay for “perks.”
Yesterday at Circle K, the cashier told me to download their app for perks and free drinks. Sounds good, right? But it sparked a bigger thought: in today’s world, digital privacy and apps are directly tied together. Every perk we grab usually costs us something we can’t see — our information.
Relatable Story
I’m standing in line, and the pitch drops: “Free drinks, discounts, rewards.” But here’s the truth — nothing in this world is really free. That Circle K app wasn’t just about saving me a couple bucks. It was about scooping up my data.
The Reality of Digital Privacy and Apps in 2025
When we download apps, we’re not just unlocking perks — we’re unlocking access. Companies track where we go, what we buy, how often we buy it. That “free” soda? Nah, it was paid for with my privacy. And that’s how digital privacy and apps work in 2025: convenience is the hustle, and our data is the real product.
Why It Matters
Think about it: your location history, purchase patterns, even late-night snack runs — it’s all currency. Companies flip that information behind the scenes. Meanwhile, we’re sipping a “free” drink thinking we scored.
Control the Trade
I’m not saying delete every app. Download what makes your life better — just don’t trade more than you’re getting. Ask yourself: am I scoring a perk, or am I handing over my playbook?
In this digital age, privacy is power. Control it. Protect it. Use it wisely. Because the cost of convenience is higher than most people realize.
Your Data Is Worth More Than a Soda
At the end of the day, the smartest move isn’t avoiding apps — it’s knowing the game. Download what serves you, skip what doesn’t, and always remember: your data is the most valuable asset you own.
Al, your point about convenience being the hustle and our data being the real product truly resonates. It's not just about what apps track, but how easily our broader digital footprint can reveal more than we intend across various platforms. This extends beyond just app usage; even the files we share can unknowingly contain a wealth of personal information. For anyone looking to take a more proactive step in safeguarding their digital privacy, understanding and utilizing tools for removing sensitive metadata from photos and documents is a crucial next step.