Are we seeing a global synergy in data privacy?

No. 75: Bringing you the news that matters in video privacy and security

Data is constantly flowing across international borders. Technological advancements have connected people worldwide but have also introduced complex challenges regarding personal information's privacy and security. In turn, this has underscored the need for a unified approach to data privacy and protection. While the GDPR has been in effect for several years, there is a growing need for more forms of international cooperation. 

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has recently announced a partnership with the Global Cooperation Arrangement for Privacy Enforcement (Global CAPE). This move marks a significant step towards harmonising global data privacy regulations. 

At the domestic level, tech leaders at CES 2024 have called for a national data privacy law in the US. This call reflects a growing consensus that a unified federal framework is essential for comprehensive and effective data protection.

The FTC's role in Global CAPE is a proactive response to the fragmented landscape of data privacy laws worldwide. It signals a shift towards a more coordinated global effort to safeguard data privacy, benefiting consumers and businesses alike. Simultaneously, the push for a national law aligns with the FTC's international efforts, emphasising that while global cooperation is crucial, it must be complemented by robust national policies to create a comprehensive and effective privacy regime.

Looking ahead, the FTC's participation in Global CAPE could pave the way for more comprehensive international agreements on data privacy. It is a stepping stone towards a future where data protection regulations are not just consistent but also cooperative - a means of respecting the sovereignty of nations while protecting the privacy rights of individuals globally.

As always, please send any feedback or topics of interest you would like to be covered.

Seena, Editor


News

The FTC joins Global Cooperation Agreement for enhanced Privacy Enforcement

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has joined the Global Cooperation Arrangement for Privacy Enforcement (Global CAPE) to enhance its capacity to implement privacy and data protection on an international scale. This collaboration includes the likes of Australia, Canada, and Singapore, and aims to facilitate more effective compliance and safeguarding of consumer personal information.

The FTC: FTC Signs on to Multilateral Arrangement to Bolster Cooperation on Privacy and Data Security Enforcement

Digital Watch Observatory: FTC entered a multilateral agreement to enhance cooperation in privacy enforcement

 

Calls for the DOJ to investigate whether facial recognition violates civil rights

A group of 18 US senators have expressed concerns to the Department of Justice about the potential civil rights violations linked to federally funded facial recognition programs. They question the use of such technology, referencing studies and reports that highlight biases and errors in these systems.

Biometric Update: Senators ask DoJ if federal facial recognition funding violates civil rights

The Record: Senators ask DOJ to investigate whether facial recognition tech violates Civil Rights Act

 

Amazon penalised for excessive employee monitoring by French CNIL

Amazon France Logistique faced a significant fine for violating the GDPR by excessively monitoring its employees using scanners and "stow machine guns," which tracked their inactivity and handling speeds down to the second. France's data protection authority found that the company did not adequately inform employees about the surveillance, kept data for 31 days, and placed workers under constant pressure.

France24: France fines Amazon €32 million over employee surveillance

BNN Bloomberg: Amazon Fined by French Watchdog Over Employee Surveillance

 

Tech leaders urge US to adopt federal data privacy law 

Representatives from major tech companies emphasised the need for a federal data privacy law in the US to effectively regulate AI. During CES 2024, industry leaders argued that consistent national legislation is crucial for businesses to comply with data privacy standards and foster innovation without the burden of navigating patchwork state legislation. 

Tech Target: Big tech reps call for U.S. data privacy law at CES 2024

Broadband Breakfast: CES 2024: Industry Wants Federal Data Privacy Law

 

Fertility laboratory proposes settlement for data breach affecting 350,000 patients 

ReproSource Fertility Diagnostics has proposed a settlement for a 2021 ransomware attack that potentially compromised the sensitive health data of nearly 350,000 patients. As well as a $3000 compensation, the settlement includes ReproSource's commitment to enhancing its cybersecurity measures to prevent future breaches.

The HIPAA Journal: ReproSource Fertility Diagnostics Proposes $1.25 Million Class Action Data Breach Settlement

Health IT Security: Massachusetts Fertility Test Center Reaches $1.25M Data Breach Settlement


AI Snippet of the Week

Australia considers requirements for watermarking AI-generated content

The Australian government is considering measures such as watermarking or labelling content created by AI. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure the safe and responsible use of AI, which includes setting up an expert advisory group, developing AI safety standards, and considering mandatory safeguards for AI applications in various sectors.

The Guardian: Australia may ask tech companies to label content generated by AI platforms such as ChatGPT

The Morning News: Australia To Ask Tech Companies To Watermark AI Content


Policy Updates

New Jersey passes comprehensive data protection bill

The New Jersey Legislature has passed a comprehensive data protection bill, SB 332, which regulates entities handling the personal data of New Jersey residents and imposes strict obligations on data controllers and processors. 

Bloomberg Law: New Jersey Privacy Law Helps Expand US Consumer Privacy System

JD Supra: New Jersey Adopts a Comprehensive Data Protection Law: What You Need to Know and Do Now


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