The issue about the “supercookies” is almost over. This time last year, Verizon allowed users to opt-out of Supercookies and online activity tracking to the delight of the customers. They came back (sort of) a few months ago and are said to be being shared with AOL. It’s one issue that mobile users, at least the Verizon subscribers, thought would exploit security and bring to light possible hijacking.
A lot of groups complained about this matter but good thing the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation of the Senate stepped in by influencing the decision of Big Red in checking its security and privacy practices. It should have been enough though. Verizon backtracking the policy was one wise decision but unfortunately, it was done too late.
The result for the late move was the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) slapping the mobile carrier a $1.35 million fine. Too little or too much? We can’t say really but the federal agency and Verizon Wireless recently entered a settlement.
Aside from the amount, Verizon is required to ask subscriber for permission before data are shared with third parties–as they should. Richard Young, spokesperson for Verizon, said in a statement share with the New York Time, “Over the past year, we have made several changes to our advertising programs that have provided consumers with even more options. Today’s settlement with the FCC recognized that”.
With everything that is said and done, we can conclude that Verizon is now on right path to protecting the privacy of the customers.
VIA: SlasgGear
