NEW YORK (AP) – The federal government is proposing new privacy rules that would make Internet service providers such as cable and phone companies ask your permission in some instances before using and sharing your data.
Using customer information could help so-called ISPs make more money from targeted digital advertising, when advertisers are able to show you ads that they think will appeal to your specific interests.
The Federal Communications Commission’s rules are likely to face criticism and possible lawsuits from Internet service providers.
The rules affect only companies that connect you to the Internet like Comcast, Verizon and Sprint. They do not apply to Internet companies that have huge advertising businesses based on customer data, like Facebook or Google. Those companies are regulated by the Federal Trade Commission.
FCC officials say their rules wouldn’t “prohibit” targeted advertising from ISPs. But the aim is that in many, if not most, cases, your Internet provider would have to get your permission before sharing your personal data with advertisers.