Connor Detlefsen
Lantern Staff
President Donald Trump approved the revoke of the Federal Communications Commission’s Privacy Rule on Monday, April 3, which allows Internet Service Providers to sell customers’ data without their consent. During a congressional hearing, 50 Republicans voted to revoked the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) privacy rule, while 48 Democrats voted no.
Without the rule, Internet Service Providers can sell customers’ online data to any party it wishes for additional profits without customer permission. Internet Service Providers argued that the revoked Privacy Rule prevented them from innovating and building a better business Democratic lawmakers attempted to prevent the revoke, but they were unsuccessful urging their fellow congress members to reconsider the potential dangers of the new rule.
The democratic lawmakers were primarily concerned as the gathered information could be compromised and put customers at risks. In addition to this, democratic members of congress also believed that it was also unfair to consumers. Though the Internet Service Providers want to assure customers’ that they plan to use the data for marketing purposes, this new choice may leave customers with two options–go without Internet or allow a service provider to sell one’s data to whoever they want.
“I don’t really understand the purpose of my privacy being invaded like this,” freshman Cade Snedden said.
The FCC Rules originally made it so where if any data was collected by Internet Service Providers they need to clearly explain that to consumers and give them the chance to opt out of the deal. The FCC rule that was rolled back would have taken effect in December 2017. Republicans believe that the FCC should have no jurisdiction over Internet Service Providers; instead, the Federal Trade Commission should decide the rules that internet Service Providers should follow. Though the prior FCC rule does not promise total privacy for consumers, this new rule means that Internet Service Providers record everything one does online.
“If you can’t stand behind it in a Court of Law, don’t put it on your computer—this rule doesn’t change anything it only makes you aware of it, Google and Microsoft have been doing this for decades,” Associate Professor of Computer Information Michael Bohrer said.
Since the new rule, Internet Service Providers could potentially charge much less for their service, which is unlikely.
“We should let people decide on what happens to their privacy, though it is also up to the consumer to know more and be more responsible,” Professor of Speech Gregory May said.