FCC to Weigh New Broadband Web Privacy Rules

The FCC's involvement in consumer privacy stems from its reclassification of broadband providers as common carriers, which limits the FTC's regulatory power. To address this, FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler proposed a controversial privacy plan. The FCC's approach differs from the FTC's, focusing on privacy practices of common carriers. Despite potential approval, the plan faces Republican opposition and possible legal challenges.

Why did the FCC get involved in consumer privacy issues?

• To support the FTC in its regulatory role

• Because broadband providers were reclassified as common carriers

• To create new privacy laws for phone companies

• To reduce the power of Congress over privacy matters

What was a key feature of the original plan proposed by FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler?

• It aimed to deregulate broadband providers

• It was aligned with the FTC's approach to privacy

• It focused on the privacy practices of phone companies

• It was widely accepted without controversy

How does the FTC's approach to privacy differ from the FCC's?

• The FTC is more concerned with the type of information collected

• The FTC focuses on who can collect information

• The FTC regulates only phone companies

• The FTC does not regulate privacy at all

What is a potential obstacle to the FCC's plan being implemented?

• Lack of support from the Democratic majority

• Approval from the FTC

• Immediate acceptance by all broadband providers

• A lawsuit challenging the rules

What is the likelihood of the FCC's plan being approved?

• It is unlikely due to lack of votes

• It is likely as they usually have the votes before proposing

• It will be decided by a public referendum

• It depends on the FTC's decision