There’s an important new study out that offers some historical analysis of spectrum auctions and how they can best be fashioned to benefit the economy and consumers . The study, by Georgetown University’s Center for Business and Public Policy visiting senior policy scholar... Read The Story...

Yesterday, I convened a roundtable on the topic of cyber security and consumer responsibility.  Michael Kaiser, director of the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA), spoke to representatives of consumer and non-profit organizations. The focus of the discussion was on developing a mechanism for educating consumers about the important role they have in maintaining a safe and secure network and, most importantly, the actions they need to take.  While network providers have a critical role in filtering security threats to the network, consumers must also do their part.  Michael Kaiser stressed the importance of “shared responsibility” for the network’s security.

While most users are aware of the problems and how to resolve some of them – such as regularly changing passwords, downloading the most up-to-date anti-virus software, and keeping up with software updates – few consumers take the necessary steps to ensure their network’s security.  NCSA is working on a strategy to help inform users about their importance of their networks safety. What we need to focus on now is how to get consumers educated and engaged about their cyber security. Unfortunately, many consumers believe that if they do not know anyone who has been affected by cybercrime, it will not happen to them – this is simply not true. By not securing their computers and other mobile Internet devices, consumers can leave themselves open to cyber criminals.

NCSA is also involved in an effort to inform kids about online safety and security, recognizing the importance of educating the “digital generation.”  While many of us think of cyber security as a national security issues – protecting the national network – it’s also a local concern.  In some cities, local government, law enforcement, and others in the community are working together to address how to prepare for threats to the network – and how to inform the community how they can help secure the network. Other communities should follow the lead of localities that are already protecting their citizens and networks.

This October is “Cybersecurity Awareness Month” and NCSA is working on a number of events to mark the month, including information for consumers on network safety.  For more information, check out NCSA’s website, www.staysafeonline.org

Online privacy is an important issue for consumers, and it’s now getting some well-deserved attention.  Last week, Representatives Rick Boucher (D-VA) and Cliff Sterns (R-FL), released a discussion draft of legislation to protect consumers’ privacy, both online and offline.  The primary intent of the draft is to require notice and consent from users prior to the collection and disclosure of their personal information.

In a statement about the draft legislation, Boucher stated “Our legislation confers privacy rights on individuals, informing them of the personal information that is collected and shared about them and giving them greater control over the collection, use and sharing of that information.” This draft is an important first step in providing consumers with greater confidence of their privacy on the Internet.

Later in the week, NTIA and the International Trade Association held a symposium to address online privacy and innovation.  Speakers at the symposium, “A Dialogue on Privacy and Innovation,” addressed issues related to global Internet commerce, the free flow of information, the important of a national privacy framework, and the impact on innovation. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke introduced the program.  Other speakers included Assistant Secretary for Communications and Information Larry Strickling and ITA Deputy Under Secretary Michelle O’Neill.  I found the day to be an interesting discussion about the balance of consumers’ right to privacy and innovation in the marketplace.

With all of these changes coming to privacy, what role do you think ISPs could play in helping consumers protect their privacy online?

I attended a panel discussion hosted by the New American Foundation on Wednesday (5/4).  The title of the panel was “Federal Communications Commission:  Toothless Regulator or Cop on the Beat?”  The primary issue was the recent Comcast Court decision, and whether or not the FCC should reclassify broadband services under Title II, rather than Title I.  The panelists offered historical perspectives and various legal arguments. It’s a legal quagmire and I find it difficult to navigate at this point – more questions than answers.

During the panel, Hank Hultquist (AT&T), Harold Feld (Public Knowledge), Linda Kinney (DISH Network) and Barbara Esbin (Progress and Freedom Foundation) offered their different views on what the FCC should do in response to the court decision.  Feld called for the FCC to open a new proceeding to solicit comments on reclassification.  Hultquist spoke about problems related to classifying broadband as a Title II service.  Kinney wants reclassification to address issues related to the services the DISH network provides.  Esbin does not think the FCC should reclassify broadband under Title II and believes Congress may need to examine these issues.  Esbin also said that the FTC can handle transparency concerns.  One interesting point Esbin made in her remarks is that if the FCC did reclassify broadband as a telecommunications service under Title II, it would change (eliminate) the FTC’s broadband authority, an interesting concern for consumers.

The consumer interest in this issue is evidenced by the FCC intent to use Title II reclassification in order to move forward with implementation of its National Broadband Plan.  It’s important that we consider how the goals of the FCC are impeded due to the Comcast Court decision, and ensure that any steps taken don’t negatively impact the future of the Internet for consumers. Overall, this issue is tricky – the reclassification of broadband services is one that industry and legal scholars will continue to weigh over the coming months.

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Consumer Resources

Below are additional resources to more information about online privacy.

Consumer Guide to Online Privacy (PDF)
What is 4G Wireless Service? (PDF)
Consumer Online Privacy Survey
2008 Online Safety Survey
bNetS@vvy
www.onguardonline.gov
www.ikeepsafe.org/
www.getnetwise.org
www.fosi.org
www.enough.org

Other Organizations

National Caucus and Center on Black Aged:
http://www.ncba-aged.org/

National Consumers League:
http://www.nclnet.org/