House Introduces Much Needed “Do Not Track” Legislation
Bill Would Protect Privacy Of Internet Users
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 11, 2011
CONTACT: (202) 675-2312 or media@dcaclu.org
WASHINGTON – Legislation introduced by Rep. Jackie Speier (D-CA) today would institute much needed privacy guidelines for Americans’ online information.
New, intrusive marketing tactics are tracking Americans’ movements online to create detailed profiles that can then be shared widely with other advertisers, employers and the government. Today’s bill would create a “do not track” list, which would allow consumers to opt out of having their online activity tracked, stored and shared with private companies for use in targeted advertising or for other purposes.
The Federal Trade Commission issued a report in December advocating for the implementation of strong protections for Americans’ online activity, including the creation and implementation of a “do not track” list. The American Civil Liberties Union supports the creation of a “do not track” list as it would create a barrier against unwarranted surveillance and targeting of Americans.
The following can be attributed to Christopher Calabrese, ACLU Legislative Counsel:
“It’s crucial that Americans have as much control over their online privacy as possible and this bill is a welcome and important first step toward that goal. Signing on to the Internet shouldn’t mean signing away your privacy. Americans must have a mechanism in place to opt out of having their online habits tracked so that they can protect their most sensitive information. A ‘do not track’ list is a logical and common sense place to start. We urge the House to make this bill a priority.”
Stay Informed
Every month, you'll receive regular roundups of the most important civil rights and civil liberties developments. Remember: a well-informed citizenry is the best defense against tyranny.
By completing this form, I agree to receive occasional emails per the terms of the ACLU’s privacy policy.
The Latest in National Security
-
ACLU Acknowledges Improvements to DOJ Racial Profiling Policy, But Says Far More is Needed
-
ACLU Applauds Court For Allowing Case Challenging FBI’s Wrongful Prosecution of Chinese American Physics Professor To Move Forward
-
Shen v. Simpson
-
Chinese Immigrants Sue Florida Over Unconstitutional and Discriminatory Law Banning Them From Buying Land
ACLU's Vision
The American Civil Liberties Union is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties guaranteed to every person in this country by the Constitution and laws of the United States of America.
Learn More About National Security
The ACLU’s National Security Project is dedicated to ensuring that U.S. national security policies and practices are consistent with the Constitution, civil liberties, and human rights.