Author Topic: AT&T's Privacy Policy - Legal Debate Rolls On (Read 1276 times)

GhostShip · « **on:** July 06, 2006, 06:27:27 pm »

Its good to see that word is spreading of AT&T's collusion in unconstitutional activities.

http://www.securityfocus.com/news/11398/1

Quote

A recent change to AT&T's privacy policy for broadband and video users is overbroad and likely will leave the courts or Congress to decide whether the company's practices are standard or sinister, legal experts said this week.
The policy change, which comes as the telecommunications giant is defending itself in court against multiple lawsuit stemming from its alleged cooperation with a surveillance program conducted by the National Security Agency, states that "while your Account Information may be personal to you, these records constitute business records that are owned by AT&T."
Privacy-concerned customers and pundits have hammered AT&T for the change over the past week.

Ira Winkler, an independent security consultant" said any AT&T customers should leave the company over the telecommunications giant's conduct.
"If there isn't a big backlash other companies are going to follow suit," Winkler said. "This change to the policy allows companies to make money in any way shape or form with your data."

Under the federal laws and many state statutes, the privacy policy might not be legal. Federal law already dictates what broadband Internet providers can do with data. The collection and use of information by telecommunications and cable companies are subject to the Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986 and the Stored Communications Act of 1986. Meanwhile, the handling of customer data and viewing habits by cable companies is governed by the Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984, important because the latest policy states that AT&T plans to track customer viewing habits when they use the company's video services.

"AT&T is trying to get their customers to waive their rights as a prerequisite of using their service," said attorney Kennedy.

I have stated previously that forcing customers into surrendering their rights to any sort of privacy in their online activity is seriously wrong, I too urge users to desert AT&T where at all possible and purchase your online service from a respectable supplier.

QueenDragon · « **Reply #1 on:** July 10, 2006, 02:32:05 am »

My company is contracted to an um. certain company, and this is the first I've heard of it - I can see what I can find out about this or at least get an answer about it from some, um. higher officials.

QueenDragon · « **Reply #2 on:** August 09, 2006, 08:59:47 am »

Ok. In my search for specifics regarding all of this through AT&T databases, and requesting information from my "higher ups" if you will, here are my responses.

Considering the contract agreement, verbage in that has mysteriously changed.

During all of my requests for information regarding this, and what my representative's repsonses should be regarding any questions to this matter, was no response at all. I'm assuming they must BS it.

Questions regarding what response my reps are to give if a customer asks information regarding the current lawsuit filed against ATT for surveillance:

"WE apologize, but at this time ATT has not given a statement, pending the current lawsuits in place. ATT feels it has acted adequately, and stands by that decision. "

What IS strange, is the fact that I have manager's clearance, yet cannot seem to find anything on any of these questions that any customer at any time may ask. normally, I can find 50 answers phrased differently to any given question.

Also, found some other interesting things; suck as the basic terms and conditions of ATT privacy policies. Enjoy. I will continue to delve into this, as my curiosity has now hit a dangerous level.

"We also have an obligation to assist law enforcement and other government agencies responsible for protecting the public welfare, whether it be an individual or the security interests of the entire nation. If and when we are asked to help, we do so strictly within the law and under the most stringent conditions."

PRIVACY POLICY UPDATES

* This privacy policy supersedes and replaces all previously posted privacy policies.
* We want you to be aware of the information we collect, how we use it and under what circumstances, if any, we disclose it. We reserve the right to update this privacy policy to reflect any changes we make in order to continue to serve the best interests of our customers and Web visitors and will timely post those changes. If we make a material change to this privacy policy, we will post a prominent notice on our Web sites.
* If we intend, however, to use personal identifying information in a manner materially different from that stated at the time of collection, we will attempt to notify you at least 30 days in advance using an address or e-mail address, if you have provided one, and by posting a prominent notice on our Web sites, and you will be given a choice as to whether or not we use your information in this different manner.
* Please periodically check our Web sites for changes to this privacy policy.