Research & Commentary: Internet Privacy and Do Not Track
Legislation Internet privacy has become a hot issue as
technology to track user movements online has become more
widespread. Much of the debate centers on “behavioral
advertising,” through which businesses target their marketing
based on Web users’ search and browsing histories. Some critics
of the practice argue tracking Internet users’ online activities
is an invasion of privacy. They have pushed for laws and
regulations limiting how and when companies can track online
movements. Both the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and U.S.
Congress have proposed new regulations creating a “do not track”
policy in which Internet browsers and Web sites will be
forbidden to track online movements without explicit permission.
Some legislation addressing online privacy and do not track
already has been introduced. The Do Not Track Me Online Act,
proposed by Rep. Jackie Speier (D-CA) would give the FTC the
authority to force online marketers to give consumers the choic