Personal Details That Broadband Providers Can Collect

The United States has been falling behind the rest of the world, at least in terms of what companies can do with personal data. Many European countries have been protecting their citizens’ privacy for a while now. However, the U.S. recently passed a new rule that prevents companies from giving citizens’ personal information to other companies.

Which Personal Details Were Collected?

Just a few short weeks ago, broadband providers could legally distribute information about their users. This includes your location, financial information, web browsing habits, the apps that you use, the websites that you visit, among other information. Broadband providers knew it all — and they weren’t afraid to share it.

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Your Personal Information Will Still Be Collected

Now companies like Comcast and AT&T can’t use your personal information for targeted marketing. However, AT&T, Comcast, and Verizon can still gather information on users — but it is now a lot harder than it used to be. Jeffrey Chester, the executive director of the Center for Digital Democracy, stated, “For the first time, the public will be guaranteed that when they use broadband to connect to the internet, whether on a mobile device or personal computer, they will have the ability to decide whether and how much of their information can be gathered.” Finally, it is up to the consumer — to an extent.

Of course, this ruling will not affect users of the HBO Now app or the AT&T DirecTV users, for example. The ruling is only applicable to broadband businesses. Web companies, such as Facebook and Google, are also left out of the F.C.C. ruling. These kinds of companies will follow the general consumer protection rules handled by the Federal Trade Commission. They do not need to ask for permission before gathering web browsing habits.

When and How the Ruling Will Go into Effect

It will be a year before consumers see any of these changes. Companies will notify users of the new privacy options through email or pop-up boxes on their websites. Once the ruling goes into effect, broadband providers will no longer be able to gather personal info — unless they receive customer permission.

Protect Your Information

Now that your broadband information will soon be safe, it’s time to further protect your web browsing activity. You should always be careful about the type of information you provide to companies, in addition to which companies you trust with your information. Download and install PSafe Total Windows to protect your computer from viruses and malware. PSafe Total Windows also offers disc cleanup, which will help your computer to run faster and better than ever.