F.T.C. surfs the Web and gears up to demand privacy protection
Article Abstract:
The FTC is poised to emphasize formal regulation of Internet privacy. This position would contrast with the Clinton Administration's self-regulation policy since 1997. A key shift began in Jun 1998, when the FTC published a survey on the approximately 1,400 Web sites that its attorneys had monitored in spring 1998. Visitors supplied personal information to more than 90% of the Web sites, but only 14% of them showed how they would use the information. The agency will give the industry a few more months to show improvement, according to several senior FTC officials. Industry failure to demonstrate proof would compel the FTC to seek Congressional passage of an FTC-drafted bill that demands clear Internet privacy standards. The FTC is an independent agency that does not require permission from the Clinton Administration.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1998
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It may be boilerplate, but read before you click
Article Abstract:
There are questions about whether Web users are signing a legally binding contract when they click on the 'I agree' or 'I accept' button at the end of pages that contain complex legal language in small types. Many impatient users bind themselves to these 'click through' or 'shrink wrap' agreements in their haste to install a new computer game. The legal community likens the 'contracts of adhesion' to video store policies, rental car forms and airline tickets. Scholars generally say these shrink-wrap agreements can constitute contracts unless the provisions are unreasonable, but the buyer's inability to negotiate the terms makes it difficult to enforce in court. Most of the shrink-wrap agreements contain language designed to protect the company from a potential customer suit.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1998
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