Privacy and Demographics

Version 1.0: June 1, 1996

Introduction

There is a constant tension, in all commercial media, between a desire by the public for privacy (to view information without being observed or tracked) and a need for information about the viewing audience.

Requirements

1. W3C must identify the significant stake holders in this particularly complex area.
2. The problem is far too large to be addressed in its entirety in any single forum. Like the security and electronic commerce areas, W3C must work with its members to identify the parts of the problem that can be helped by W3C involvement.

Current Situation

W3C has held a workshop on this area. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is holding hearings on this area, and the Federal Communications Commission is expressing interest as well. The Center for Democracy and Technology, who helped form the PICS initiative, is taking an active role in this area.

Products

Next Step

PICS has been mentioned as part of a technical solution in this area. Participants in the PICS initiative are testifying to the FTC, and W3C will doubtless be asked to participate as well.

Public Commitments

W3C's only commitment is to work in this area.