TPM covers Verizon’s warrant-free disclosure of phone subscriber information to the FBI. The lawless disclosure demonstrates why we need real, enforced regulation. TPM commenter Ferruge suggests the brand damage to Verizon when he says, “This sure lends a whole new meaning to ‘Can you hear me now?’” [Link is mine.]
But the damage may go further. Verizon recently decided to share subscriber information with “affiliates, agents and parent companies” for sales and possibly cell phone advertising purposes. Verizon sent out a letter discussing the new policy, which had an opt-out process (i.e. if you do nothing in response to their letter your information will be shared) - putting the onus on customers to say “no.” Talk about bad timing. Verizon wants customers to trust them with their personal data - but they’ve already shown themselves unwilling to obey laws regarding customer privacy. Maybe Verizon will find there’s a good business reason to handle private customer data legally, and with respect. Maybe they’ll find customer trust matters.
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