Public Knowledge Files Comments Urging NTIA to Protect Consumer Privacy
Public Knowledge Files Comments Urging NTIA to Protect Consumer Privacy
Public Knowledge Files Comments Urging NTIA to Protect Consumer Privacy

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    Recently, Public Knowledge filed comments with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration in response to the agency’s request for input on “Developing the Administration’s Approach to Consumer Privacy.” The agency is seeking ways to advance consumer privacy while protecting prosperity and innovation.

    In response to the NTIA’s proposed risk-based approach, Public Knowledge contends that any privacy regime should, at a minimum, account for risks beyond traditional harms, such as financial loss, to include harms such as reputational harm or undermining of public trust. Public Knowledge urges the NTIA to consider “the full panoply of risks” that may arise from misuse of personal data when recommending privacy policy to the Administration. Furthermore, any federal privacy regime must provide robust protections for all personal data — that is, any information that is reasonably linkable, directly or indirectly, to a specific consumer, household, or device.

    The following can be attributed to Allie Bohm, Policy Counsel at Public Knowledge:

    “We appreciate the opportunity to submit comments on the Administration’s approach to privacy. It is imperative that any Administration proposal address consumers’ interests and concerns. Although the NTIA articulates a number of important outcomes and high-level goals for federal action, notably absent are outcomes and goals around fairness, consumer protection, and equal opportunity. The NTIA’s proposal also leans too heavily on a risk-based approach and on “reasonableness,” a term that individuals and businesses likely interpret very differently. We’re ready to assist the NTIA to ensure that consumers’ interests are reflected as the agency continues developing the Administration’s approach to privacy.”

    You may view the comments here.

    Members of the media may contact Communications Director Shiva Stella with inquiries, interview requests, or to join the Public Knowledge press list at shiva@publicknowledge.org or 405-249-9435.