The FCC's Broadband Privacy Order: A New Privacy Framework

November 4, 2016

On November 2, 2016, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) issued new rules imposing broad and complex privacy and security obligations on broadband internet access service (BIAS) providers. The new rules, along with FCC “guidance” about best practices, govern the data collection and use practices of BIAS providers, telecommunications carriers, and interconnected VoIP providers.

The new rules focus on three main concepts: transparency, choice, and security. Among many obligations, covered providers must notify customers about the types of information they collect and how they use or share that information. Covered providers must obtain different levels of customer consent to use or share information depending upon the sensitivity of the information and the use. The rules also impose new data security requirements, as well as notice requirements in the event of a data breach.

A full summary is available here.