Pallone, Rosenworcel call for investigation into wireless users’ data

Representative Frank Pallone (D-NJ) and FCC Commissioner Rosenworcel are calling for an investigation into the security of wireless users’ location data. The call comes as lawmakers and the public are increasingly concerned about how their online data is being used.

“A hearing on how this information was made available is necessary to better understand whether the privacy protections in the Communications Act were violated and whether Congress needs to take action to ensure users’ data are protected,” Pallone wrote in a letter. “In light of our commitment to protect the privacy of the American people, I request a hearing on this issue so we can fully understand the use, transfer, and protection of cell phone location data and how Congress can act to protect consumers.”

“A congressional hearing and @FCC investigation are both in order,” Rosenworcel added over Twitter. “Our wireless location data is being disclosed whether or not we have authorized it. That’s not right and we’ve got to get to the bottom of this and fix what’s wrong.”

Americans are becoming increasingly concerned with the use of their personal data. Facebook founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg recently appeared in hearings before both houses of Congress after Facebook failed to protect the data of more than 50 million of its users. And a new coalition has sprouted up to curb Facebook’s power and push for online privacy protections.

Links:

Legislators, regulators call for investigations into carriers’ location security practices (FierceWireless, May 25, 2018)

Coalition demands FTC curb Facebook’s power (CWA, May, 21, 2018)