In the News
Is the US data policy shifting towards that of Europe? In Democrats propose new federal agency to fight back against tech privacy scandals, Makena Kelly at The Verge discusses a proposed Online Privacy Act aimed at cracking down on data misuse and privacy issues. Kelly explains that the legislation would create a federal agency in charge of enforcing data privacy and serve fines and punishments for those in violation. Kelly explains that this legislation has many similarities to Europe’s current General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and is even more powerful than California’s Consumer Privacy Act.
Our Take
The GDPR has transformed how companies operate in Europe and have given users a vast amount of security in protecting their data and personal information. The GDPR has essentially created not only stricter regulations on how user data can be used but also increased accountability and repercussions if it is violated serving as an incentive to companies to alter their practices if they want to have a user base in Europe. The US has been grappling with how to enforce data privacy policies for companies and how to effectively punish those violating basic privacy policies. Some states like California have introduced their own legislation, but this has not been passed on a federal level in any sense. The Online Privacy Act would not only regulate companies and their data use practices, but also create a branch of government tasked with enforcing such matters. This could potentially increase consumer confidence in not only their data privacy, but also in the government for looking out for its people. However, such massive legislation is likely to be met with server lobbying and for now, the legislation is still in its very early stages of discussion.
Recommendations
How can you protect your data from misuse?
- Understand the risks of putting your personal information into the world, and only share what you have to
- Use safe password practices, and take advantage of Multi-factor Authentication where possible
- Utilize additional security/privacy measures and settings on apps, accounts, and platforms whenever possible
- Research and read a company’s data privacy practices before utilizing their services
- Know your rights when it comes to data storage both on a company and legal level