Civil Liberties in the Digital Age: Weekly Highlights (10/21/2011)

In the digital age that we live in today, we are constantly exposing our personal information online. From using cell phones and GPS devices to online shopping and sending e-mail, the things we do and say online leave behind ever-growing trails of personal information. The ACLU believes that Americans shouldn’t have to choose between using new technology and keeping control of your private information. Each week, we feature some of the most interesting news related to technology and civil liberties that we’ve spotted from the previous week.

Google, Facebook go retro in push to update 1986 privacy law [cnet]
“For a few hours on Capitol Hill yesterday evening, it was October 1986 again, complete with legwarmers, an Apple IIc, pop rocks, Duran Duran, and cell phones the size of a cat.”

Twitter chief: We will protect our users from Government [Telegraph]
“Costolo referred …about the need to ensure Twitter remains a platform upon which freedom of speech is prioritised, even during times of civil unrest.”

ECPA: Online Privacy Stuck in the ’80s [ACLU Blog of Rights]
This week, our federal online privacy law turns 25. The ACLU is hosting a blog series that will address some of the many reasons why the “Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986” (ECPA) is in need of an upgrade!

Mobile Marketing Association Releases New Privacy Policy Guidelines for Mobile Apps for Public Comment [Market Watch]
“… the release of the MMA Mobile Application Privacy Policy, the first guidelines document of its kind that addresses the core privacy issues and data processes of many mobile applications, for public comment.”

See also: PrivacyChoice Challenges Developers To “Get Their Apps in Gear”

Majority of Consumers See No Benefit in Sharing Personal Data [Hospitality Technology]
“Seventy-four percent of American and Canadian consumers said they don’t feel they’re receiving a benefit from sharing personal information with marketers, according to the latest survey research from LoyaltyOne.”

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