This month, the Federal Trade Commission announced that it is exploring new rules aimed at addressing concerns about harmful commercial surveillance and inadequate data security. As part of this exploration, the FTC is asking for input from the public — both institutions and individuals.
This is an important moment in the effort to reign in the power of big tech and advance the public interest, and a historic opportunity to help shape the future of how algorithmic decision-making systems are governed in the United States. It’s a chance for researchers and activists to contribute directly to the public debate. It’s a moment we can’t afford to miss.
Among other areas, the FTC is eager for input about threats to online privacy, the impacts of algorithmic discrimination and automated decision-making systems, and whether they should implement new regulations concerning the ways companies collect and use consumer data — including whether and how they are doing so in ways that are biased or misleading. There is more detail in the FTC’s press release and factsheet.
So how can you participate?
It is essential that the FTC hear from a wide range of people about how surveillance, algorithms, and automated systems are impacting their lives and communities — and society as a whole. We hope you will join us in contributing to this critical conversation.
