FCC to probe how mobile carriers use consumer location data

by Jacob Fuller

 

The Federal Communications Commission said Thursday the agency will investigate mobile carriers’ compliance with rules requiring them to disclose to consumers how they are using and sharing location data.

“This information and geolocation data is really sensitive. It’s a record of where we’ve been and who we are,” FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said. “That’s why the FCC is taking steps to ensure this data is protected.”

In July, Rosenworcel asked the 15 top mobile carriers including Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Comcast, Alphabet’s Google Fi, and Charter Communications for information about their data retention and privacy policies and practices. The FCC released the responses Thursday and made it easier for consumers to file complaints on the FCC website.

In February 2020, the FCC proposed fining four major U.S. wireless carriers over $200 million for failing to protect consumers’ location information.

The issue has drawn new interest in recent months.

In July, Google said it would delete location data showing when users visit an abortion clinic, following concerns that a digital trail could inform law enforcement if an individual terminates a pregnancy illegally.

FISM Editor’s Note:

As an alternative to Big Tech companies that sell your information and use the profits to support abortionists and pro-abortion politicians, Patriot Mobile offers nationwide mobile coverage and is owned and operated by conservative Christians who celebrate human life and work to protect it.

Copyright 2022 Thomson/Reuters

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