Counting the cost of data as currency

[Extract] As we become more reliant on the internet in almost every aspect of our lives, we are entering into a bargain the extent of which is difficult to comprehend.
Each time we go online, we leave a part of ourselves that is collected by private companies, and by government. We leave a trace of our location (often quite precise), our thoughts and interests, and frequently, we leave explicit personal and private information.
Largely these digital crumbs serve us well, contributing to a convenient and time-saving online experience. We can find friends and loved ones, we are offered goods and services likely to meet our needs, and we learn information that is immediately relevant, served to us in milliseconds.