[Ecommerce] Welcome to Safe Harbor!

[Andrew Shen]

Safe Harbor has begun. As with all Internet related topics, the beginning
of a new program entails the development of a new website. The U.S.
Department of Commerce has launched http://www.export.gov/safeharbor/.

As of this morning, only one company has signed up - BAE Systems of
Virginia, apparently some kind of defense contractor that does business in
Austria.

I am reading through all the materials provided on the site but one of the
most interesting documents provided is the "Safe Harbor Workbook", a primer
on Safe Harbor and privacy law written by the DOC.

Excerpt from section entitled "U.S. Approach to Privacy":

	In the United States, the importance of protecting the privacy of
	individuals' personal information is a priority for the federal
	government and consumers. Consumers repeatedly cite fears that
	their personal information will be misused as a reason for not
	doing business online. In this way, moves to bolster on-line
	privacy protect consumer interests and fuel the broader growth of
	on-line communications, innovation, and business. Self-regulatory
	initiatives are an effective approach to putting meaningful
	privacy protections in place. In certain highly sensitive areas,
	however, legislative solutions are appropriate. These sensitive
	areas include financial and medical records, genetic information,
	Social Security numbers, and information involving children.

Excerpt from section entitled "The European Approach":

	The EU's approach to privacy grows out of Europe's history and
	legal traditions. In Europe, protection of information privacy is
	viewed as a fundamental, human right. Europe also has a tradition
	of prospective, comprehensive lawmaking that seeks to guard
	against future harms, particularly where social issues are
	concerned.

	The EU began examining the impact of technology on society over
	fifteen years ago; the inquiry culminated in the adoption of a
	directive in July 1995 specifically addressing privacy issues.


Best, Andrew.



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