Online Privacy Policies

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I have chosen to do my internet exercise on an article from The Washington Post, readexpress.com titled “A victory for online privacy” (BrianFung) where the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) restricts what service providers can do with your data.  This internet article discusses new privacy rules that have been established to protect sensitive data.  The rules passed a 3 to 2 vote by the (FCC) which requires consent before using or sharing data with third parties.  Comcast and Verizon will be affected by these changes and must have consent before sharing personal and sensitive date with marketing firms.  Tom Wheeler said “It is the consumer’s information and it should be the consumer’s choice how it is used.”  Although, the new rules will typically not change advertisement seen on the web, the regulations will control many business practices.

What I will take away from this article is how internet providers use our data as an opportunity to not only advertise but solicit sells.  I have recently noticed that facebook uses my behavioral data to target my interest.  It’s almost as if my computer knows me personally. I receive advertisement based upon my future purchases or items I have reviewed in the past.  I often receive many offers that pop up on my timeline. I must admit I am not fully against these advertisements because it keeps me from searching the web to locate new products and services. However, I understand that the social media world is taking over and so much of what we post is an opportunity for unwanted hackers to target its victims. Rules and privacy policies protects us from being victimized. As an author I like the fact that my children’s books will pop up on potential customer’s websites; it’s a great tool to solicit sells for business owners and companies.

This article is relevant to managers because the new rules will change business practices.   Businesses that collect sensitive information will need to properly secure or dispose of it.  The correct steps can avoid companies from being sewed or being charged legal fees, they need to be in compliance. Company’s privacy policy is its pledge to the customers about how they plan to use and protect privacy information.  Many Companies use credit reports to evaluate customer’s worthiness and must find out how to handle this information. Businesses use a great deal of private information and they must keep out of trouble with the law.

The Children Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) is for children under age 13.  Companies must get parent consent if they collect or use children’s private information. Technology created a new way for companies to operate their businesses. There internet allows business to communicate in varies ways.  Many businesses use email servers, business software and business websites which allow customers to buy products and review information.  

http://www.ehow.com/info_7847291_privacy-laws-affect-businesses.html

http://smallbusiness.chron.com/effect-internet-modern-businesses-corporations-896.html

Privacy Law

For many companies, collecting sensitive consumer and employee information is an essential part of doing business. It is your legal responsibility to take steps to properly secure or dispose of it.  Financial data, personal information from children, and material derived from credit reports may raise additional compliance considerations. In addition, you may have legal responsibilities to victims of identity theft. 

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