A new review highlights concerns over how some rental platforms may be bypassing Victorian tenant data protections by pressuring applicants to disclose unnecessary personal details beyond standard rental applications. The Consumer Policy Research Centre found that certain "RentTech" companies push for excessive information or ask questions unrelated to the legal requirements, potentially undermining safeguards for tenant privacy. Experts warn this practice could expose applicants to unnecessary data risks while exploiting loopholes in the state’s regulations. The findings raise questions about whether these platforms are complying with intended legal protections for tenants.
Some rental platforms encourage hopeful tenants to share ‘excessive’ amount of information, Consumer Policy Research Centre review findsGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastSo-called “RentTech” companies may be circumventing new Victorian laws designed to protect tenants’ personal data by asking for information outside the rental application process, a review as found.The Consumer Policy Research Centre (CPRC) identified rental platforms that encouraged hopeful tenants to share an “excessive” amount of personal information, or asked them questions that were “completely outside” the new rules. Continue reading...
