CDT Policy Post: Closer Look at ISP-Ad Network Partnerships

CDT issued a policy post today that takes a closer look at the privacy concerns raised by the ISP-ad network partnership model within the online behavioral advertising field. Behavioral advertising involves the compilation of detailed information about an Internet user’s online activities. That data, when collected, can be turned into detailed consumer profiles including articles read, web sites visited, and items purchased. Today's policy post says the ISP-ad network model may violate federal law if it deployed without express consent of subscribers. CDT notes that Congress is taking a closer look at the practice and that online consumer privacy law may be introduced to address concerns. September 18, 2008

Online Behavioral Advertising: Discussing the ISP-Ad Network Model [PDF] September 18, 2008

CDT Joins Call for Transparency in Proposed I.P. Trade Agreement

CDT and numerous other domestic and international public interest organizations sent a letter yesterday pressing for public disclosure of specific provisions being considered by negotiators of the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement. The proposed treaty could touch on a range of intellectual property issues, including such broadly important topics as how I.P. enforcement regimes should address Internet distribution and information technology. But no draft text has been released. The lack of transparency, combined with an aggressive timetable aiming for a completed agreement by the end of the year, creates a serious risk that controversial provisions could be adopted with no meaningful opportunity for input or debate. September 16, 2008

Joint letter urging release of ACTA draft text [PDF] September 15, 2008

CDT Policy Post on ACTA September 16, 2008

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