Survey customers without invading their privacy

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Though it may feel as though it is a losing battle, concerns about privacy permeate the national dialogue, from fears about identity theft to potential TSA full-body scans at airports.

For many businesses, engaging in customer research can mean walking a fine line between gathering vital information for you and intruding on the customer's privacy.
It's a tough nut. You need to know who your customers really are and the reasons behind their buying decisions. But crossing the line to find out too much can be downright perilous.

Here are seven tips.

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