An Overview of Existing Policies:
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): Implemented by the European Union (EU), GDPR sets guidelines for the collection and processing of personal information of individuals within the EU. It aims to give control to individuals over their personal data and simplify the regulatory environment for international business by unifying regulations within the EU.(see appendix 1) General data protection regulation (GDPR) | EUR-Lex (europa.eu)
California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA): Enacted in California, CCPA enhances privacy rights and consumer protection for residents of California, United States. It grants consumers the right to know what personal information is being collected about them, the right to opt-out of the sale of their personal information, and the right to access their personal information.(see appendix 2). California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) | State of California - Department of Justice - Office of the Attorney General
United States, Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act (CDA): Section 230 provides immunity to online platforms from liability for content posted by third parties. It shields platforms from being held legally responsible for user-generated content while allowing them to moderate content as they see fit. However, there have been debates about revising or amending this law to hold platforms more accountable for certain types of content. (see appendix 3). Section 230 - Department of Justice Search Results
EU Digital Services Act (DSA): Proposed legislation by the European Commission, DSA aims to update rules for digital services, including social media platforms and online marketplaces. It addresses issues such as content moderation, advertising transparency, and user empowerment, aiming to create a safer and more accountable online environment.(see appendix 4)The EU’s Digital Services Act (europa.eu)
Antitrust Laws and Investigations: Various antitrust laws, such as the Sherman Antitrust Act in the United States, are being used to investigate and potentially regulate Big Tech companies like Google, Facebook, Amazon, and Apple. These laws aim to prevent monopolistic behavior, promote fair competition, and protect consumers' interests in terms of pricing, innovation, and choice. ( see appendix 5) The Antitrust Laws | Federal Trade Commission (ftc.gov)