In 2025, data is one of the most valuable assets, and many apps are offering users the opportunity to earn money by selling their data.
Your browsing habits, shopping preferences, location data, and other online activities are worth something—and you can get paid for sharing them with companies that use this data for research and marketing.
If you’re comfortable with the idea of sharing certain information to make extra money, here are the top 5 apps that allow you to earn by selling your data.
Making the Most of Selling Your Data
Selling your data isn’t for everyone, and it’s important to know what kind of data you’re sharing and with whom.
Some apps provide transparency about how your data is used, while others may be more vague. Always read the privacy policies and ensure you’re comfortable with how your information will be used. If you’re cautious about sharing personal details, start with apps that offer limited data collection.
Keep in mind, the more data you’re willing to share, the higher your potential earnings. The key is finding a balance between making money and maintaining your privacy.
1. Nielsen Computer and Mobile Panel
Nielsen is one of the most well-known market research companies in the world, and their app lets you earn money by simply sharing your mobile and computer usage data. This includes information like which apps you use, your browsing habits, and even how much time you spend on different websites. It’s a passive way to earn money while you go about your daily activities.
How It Works
After downloading the Nielsen app on your phone or computer, the app runs in the background and tracks your activity. You don’t need to do anything except keep the app installed and running. Nielsen rewards you with points, which can be redeemed for gift cards or cash.
Pros
- Completely passive, no effort required.
- Trusted and reputable company.
- Points can be redeemed for cash or rewards.
Cons
- Limited earnings potential.
- Requires long-term commitment to accumulate significant rewards.
2. Sweatcoin
Sweatcoin is a popular app that pays you for your physical activity, but it also tracks your movements and location. The app uses this data to create a picture of your lifestyle habits, and you earn Sweatcoins based on the steps you take. You can then exchange your coins for rewards, including gift cards, fitness gear, or even cash via PayPal.
How It Works
Simply download the app and track your steps throughout the day. The app tracks your movement, converting steps into Sweatcoins. Sweatcoin collects your location and step data to improve its algorithm and help businesses target potential customers based on physical activity patterns.
Pros
- Encourages physical activity while earning money.
- Wide variety of rewards and cash options.
- Fun and easy way to monetize fitness.
Cons
- Earnings are slow and not very high unless you’re very active.
- Privacy concerns with location tracking.
3. Locket Widget
Locket Widget is an app that allows you to make money by displaying ads on your home screen. While the app doesn’t directly sell your data, it collects information about your app usage and browsing habits to show you relevant ads. This information is then shared with advertisers, who pay Locket Widget for targeted ad placement.
How It Works
Once you install the app, you can set it up as a widget on your phone’s home screen. As you interact with ads, you earn rewards based on your engagement. Locket Widget tracks your app usage and browsing habits to optimize the ad experience and maximize earnings.
Pros
- Minimal effort required—just set up the widget and start earning.
- Ads are highly relevant based on your habits.
- Cash and gift card options for rewards.
Cons
- Some users find ads to be intrusive.
- Earnings are not substantial unless you use the app frequently.
4. Upromise by Sallie Mae
Upromise is a cashback and rewards app that allows you to earn money by linking your credit cards and shopping at participating retailers. While it primarily tracks your shopping habits to provide cashback, it also collects some data regarding your purchasing patterns, which is used to target you with specific offers. This data is shared with partners to help optimize their marketing strategies.
How It Works
You link your credit cards to the Upromise app and shop as usual at participating retailers. The app tracks your purchases, offering cashback for eligible purchases. The more you shop, the more data you provide to Upromise, which is used to enhance the app’s targeting and offer better deals.
Pros
- Easy way to earn cashback on everyday purchases.
- Data is used to provide targeted offers and rewards.
- Free to use with no hidden fees.
Cons
- Limited earning potential unless you shop frequently at participating retailers.
- Data collection is based on your purchase habits, which may raise privacy concerns for some users.
5. Honeygain
Honeygain is an app that allows you to sell your internet bandwidth by sharing unused data from your internet connection. While the app collects your data usage patterns, it’s primarily focused on helping businesses and researchers with their internet connectivity needs. You can earn money by sharing your bandwidth with Honeygain and let the app run in the background.
How It Works
Once you install Honeygain, you allow it to access your unused internet bandwidth. Honeygain uses this data to help companies perform market research, web scraping, and other tasks. The app runs in the background, and you earn credits based on the amount of bandwidth you share. You can cash out once you accumulate a certain amount of credits.
Pros
- Passive income with little effort.
- Transparent about how your data is used.
- Pays in cash or via PayPal.
Cons
- Earnings are limited unless you have a high-speed internet connection and share significant bandwidth.
- Can affect your internet speed if not monitored.
Tips to Maximize Earnings from Selling Your Data
If you want to make the most out of selling your data, consider these tips:
- Use Multiple Apps: Don’t limit yourself to just one app. By using a variety of apps that collect different types of data, you can increase your overall earnings. However, be mindful of your privacy and ensure you’re comfortable with the data each app collects.
- Be Active and Consistent: Many of these apps reward you based on your activity, so the more you engage with them, the more you can earn. Whether it’s walking, shopping, or using an app daily, consistency is key.
- Monitor Your Privacy Settings: Be aware of what data you’re sharing and adjust your privacy settings if necessary. Some apps let you control the amount of data shared or what information is tracked, so customize these settings to ensure your privacy preferences are respected.
- Take Advantage of Rewards Programs: Some apps offer additional bonuses or rewards for reaching certain milestones. Pay attention to these opportunities to maximize your earnings.
Conclusion
Selling your data in 2025 can be an easy and passive way to earn extra income.
Apps like Nielsen Computer and Mobile Panel, Sweatcoin, Locket Widget, Upromise, and Honeygain all offer unique ways to monetize your data. However, it’s important to carefully consider your privacy and ensure you’re comfortable with the data you’re sharing.
By following the tips to maximize your earnings and using multiple apps to track different aspects of your activity, you can turn your data into a source of income.
Just remember to stay informed, and happy earning!