Alexandra Obst 17:11, 27 Oct 2004 (EST)
Privacy and New Technologies
Privacy and New technologies-Personal Data Security
Over the time that mobile phones have developed and improved there has always been particular privacy policies involved. The main mobile telephone and communication companies such as Telstra, Optus and Virgin all have strict privacy policies that should protect their customer’s personal data. As there is a growing concern about privacy with mobile phones the mobile phone companies have privacy policies that a customer must read before signing with a company. As with any form of contract this privacy policy must be read carefully to know exactly how the company intends to use ones personal information. When a customer signs up with a telephone company the company is provided with the customer’s Personally Identifiable Information. There are no strict laws as to how this information may be used, it is often used for marketing or promotional reasons which may be sent via SMS or to your home address. As a mobile is such a personal point of contact, and is almost always carried with the owner it is important that a customer’s information is kept private. It has been reported in USA today that a directory of cell phone numbers may be introduced in the United States of America (http://www.detnews.com/2004/technology/0408/04/etech-228881.htm accessed October 8, 2004). If this deems to be successful it is likely that the idea will be developed in other countries throughout the world. Unlike common telephone number directories this cell phone number directory will not be available in a hard copy or online there will simply be a 411 number. The directory will allow anyone the availability of ones phone number. The Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association (the trade group who represents wireless communication) are compiling the directory and note that not all cell phone users will be listed people will have to give permission to be on such a list. “ Rep. Joe Pitts, R-Pa., says most wireless service contracts include provisions granting permission to add a subscriber’s number to a directory, absolving carriers of liability even if a customer does not opt in�. (http://www.detnews.com/2004/technology/0408/04/etech-228881.htm accessed October 8, 2004). A bill was preceded that stated companies must get consent from existing customers before displaying their number in the list, new customers also have to opportunity to decline being on the list. The bill also states that customers who opt to keep their number off the list will not be charged like people who have an unlisted landline.
This development is yet to be passed and due to high controversy over the privacy of mobile phone users it is possible that this development will never be passed.
The exploitation of such information as a telephone number can exacerbate SMS Spam, and many other privacy invasions. It may be helpful for people who use a business cell phone but they are able to put that in a landline directory. This development is not likely to be successful because of such a concern for mobile phone user’s privacy.
Bibliography
Davidson, P. 2004. "Directory of cell phone numbers coming soon". USA TODAY,
http://www.detnews.com/2004/technology/0408/04/etech-228881.htm (accessed October 8, 2004)
Encarnacao, J. L. Rabaey, J. M. ed. 1996, Mobile Communications: Technologies, tools, applications, authentication and security, Chapman & Hall, London. ISBN 0-412-75580-7
Virgin Mobile, Privacy Policy. 2004. http://www.virginmobile.com.au/privacy_security.html (accessed October 20, 2004)
Wireless Directories Could Generate Big Revenues: Study: Mobile Pipeline News. 2004. http://news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/cmp/20040805/tc_cmp/26805779 (accessed August 9, 2004)
Alexandra Obst 21:07, 28 Oct 2004 (EST)
