Verizon Will Reward You for Access to Your Surfing Data

Are you willing to let Verizon track your wireless movements to earn rewards?

The company launched a nationwide loyalty program this week, making it the first wireless provider to offer a points system, the Associated Press reported. The program, which has already been tested in some states, is called "Smart Rewards" and is intended to encourage customers to stay.

Verizon will additionally use Smart Rewards to encourage customers to enroll in Verizon Selects, an ad-targeting program that started in 2012 and collects subscriber surfing habits.

Customers must initially enroll in Selects to be part of the Smart Rewards program, Jeffrey Nelson, vice president of wireless marketing, told the AP. After they first enroll, subscribers can leave Selects while maintaining the Smart Rewards program; however, they will miss out on additional Smart Rewards points.

Besides allowing Verizon to access their surfing information, customers can earn reward points by upgrading their phones, buying more wireless service and recycling old devices. Smart Rewards points can go toward hotel discounts, car rentals, Verizon products or online auctions on Verizon's site.

According to the company, Selects doesn't pass on any personal information to marketers and works similarly to Google's targeted Web ads.

The AP points out that location data can be gleaned from cell towers, something customers should consider if they are concerned about privacy.