US Internet providers want right to sell web browsing history of users

Posted on Tuesday, March 21 2017 @ 13:21 CET by Thomas De Maesschalck
The Verge reports CTIA is pleading with the US FCC to allow the sharing and selling of web browsing history without user permission. CTIA is an industry association that represents major companies like AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile and Sprint. The group argues providers should have the right do to this because browsing history isn't "sensitive information":
In a filing with the FCC last week, the CTIA wrote that “web browsing and app usage history are not ‘sensitive information,’” a claim the group justifies largely by saying the FCC failed to adequately prove that it is sensitive information, as the commission determined last year.

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The disagreement is around whether internet providers should be treated differently than web companies, like Facebook and Google. Internet providers argue that it’s unfair that the FCC’s rules make them get permission to share your browsing history, since other company’s don’t have to do that.
Consumer advocates are worried as internet providers can see nearly every site you visit, something other firms like Google and Facebook can't see. One bright note though is that more and more websites are moving to encryption, which means that while ISPs can still see the domains you visit, they can no longer see the specific page you went to.

The Verge predicts the Internet providers will likely win this argument, and point out that new FCC chairman Ajit Pai is in favor of reducing privacy regulations.


About the Author

Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.



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