Privacy Bill To Be Pushed by Obama Administration

Corporations May Have to Obtain Permission to Use Information about Consumers

Although corporations do not enjoy the right “personal privacy“, individuals do.  In fact the Obama Administration is ramping up to ensure more personal privacy to internet users.  Lawrence E. Strickling, an assistant secretary of commerce, is expected to call for the legislation at a hearing of the Senate Commerce Committee, as reported by the Wall Street Journal Apparently the administration will back a law that follows the outlines of a report issued by the Commerce Department in December.  The administration wants any new rules to be enforceable and will look to expand the Federal Trade Commission’s authority.

Online Tracking May Be Prohibited

Among other things, the December report suggested that companies should obtain permission to use a person’s personal data for a purpose other than for which it was collected. The administration also eventually could propose that consumers be given the right to access information about themselves and to have the information stored securely.  The administration’s plan to push for legislation reflects a shifting attitude by the government, which for more than a decade favored a hands-off approach to the Internet. Officials have said the increasing intrusiveness of online tracking has forced them to reassess that approach.  In the past year, The Wall Street Journal’s “What They Know” series has revealed that popular websites install thousands of tracking technologies (adware, spyware, and keylogging software)  on people’s computers without their knowledge, feeding an industry that gathers and sells information on their finances, political leanings and religious interests, among other things.

In December, the Federal Trade Commission called for development of a “do not track” system that would let Internet users avoid having their online activity monitored.  And the makers of the two most-popular Web browsers—Microsoft Corp. and Mozilla Corp.—have said they are incorporating do-not-track features in current or future products.

Consult a Lawyer About Improper Use of your Private Information

If you believe that a company or an individual has improperly obtained or used your personal information, without your knowledge nor consent, then you need to speak to an attorney.   You should also immediately take action to protect your online information. There are many anti-spyware, anti-phishing, and anti-adware  products that will help protect your privacy.  Remember  even if the law passes it will not stop all tracking activities — spam is not legal, but do you still get spam?