Engaging others in the digital age is likely to mean sharing personal information through the internet with the rest of the world. Tens of millions of consumers share extraordinary amounts of information–family pictures on social media, financial data from online purchases, and everything in between. With data multiplying so rapidly, it is now critical to protect consumer privacy for all American.
There has been some legislation proposed in Congress. Proposed policies include conditions like notifying users over how their information is being used, while prohibiting companies from enforcing penalties if the user requests their data not be used or sold. More control to the consumer over how companies practice data mining means more transparency and less controversy, which in the end hurts all parties involved.
In addition to giving consumers more control, these types of protections should be crafted in a way that will also help businesses. More consumer confidence in conducting business online can create a more predictable environment which can lead to more growth for companies.
We are at a critical point where the peace of mind of the American consumer could decide whether some companies succeed or fail. Policymakers should provide them the tools to make informed decisions as well as creating a stronger business climate on the long term.
