"Do Not Track" for the Internet?

Whatever your opinion on the importance of Internet privacy, you should know that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) released a report last week that will be an essential tool in charting the future of American consumer privacy policy. The report, "Protecting Consumer Privacy in an Era of Rapid Change: A Proposed Framework for Businesses and Policymakers," includes a proposal to develop a national "Do Not Track" tool for Internet users. The FTC has asked for comments, and business, consumers, and Congress are weighing in. In an Information Today feature article, columnist George Pike discusses pros, cons, differences from the "Do Not Call" registry concept, and early reaction to the proposal in Congress, where a House subcommittee hearing on the issue was also held last week.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat