A wi-fi tracker following a shopper's path within a store exemplifies which kind of data collection?

The correct choice reflects indirect tracking, which is characterized by the collection of information without the explicit awareness or consent of the individual being monitored. In the context of a Wi-Fi tracker following a shopper's path within a store, the technology does not involve direct engagement with the shopper, such as requiring them to willingly provide their location data or to interact with the tracking system in any way. Instead, it gathers data based on the signals emitted from the shopper's device as they move through the store.

Indirect tracking often relies on automated systems that analyze behaviors and patterns based on collected data points, such as movement paths and visit times, without the shopper actively participating in the data-gathering process. This is particularly relevant in retail environments where the goal is often to understand consumer behavior for marketing and operational improvements.

In contrast, direct tracking would involve known participants willingly sharing their data, active tracking would engage the individual or device in a way that they are aware they are being tracked, and passive tracking would imply a lack of user engagement but still usually requires a prior consent or action from the individual, which is distinct from the indirect method employed in this situation.