The rapid and evolving development of artificial intelligence (“AI”) has alarmed various government agencies, especially the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”). On November 21, the FTC approved an omnibus resolution simplifying the process for its staff to issue civil investigative demands (“CIDs”) in AI investigations. This resolution comes on the heels of President Biden’s October executive order establishing new standards for AI safety and security. Both actions may increase exposure for businesses involved in the use of products and services that use or are produced through AI. Businesses should be knowledgeable about their use and marketing of AI and ensure their products and conduct do not pose a risk to consumers or competition.Continue Reading Federal Trade Commission: The AI Watchdog
Consumer Privacy
FTC Updates (October 31 – November 4, 2022)
The FTC hosted an online privacy seminar that brought together researchers, academics, and industry representatives to discuss trends related to consumer privacy and data security. The agency announced a lawsuit against an education technology provider for allegedly lax data security practices that exposed sensitive information about millions of customers and employees. The agency also announced a settlement with a major telecommunications company over alleged junk fees and dark pattern practices. These stories and more after the jump.Continue Reading FTC Updates (October 31 – November 4, 2022)
FTC Updates (October 24-28, 2022)
The FTC had its hands full last week with enforcement actions—releasing orders and a warning letter in matters across the board from consumer privacy, to COVID-19, and to advertising. More on these actions, as well as an update on a forthcoming event on consumer privacy and data security, after the jump.Continue Reading FTC Updates (October 24-28, 2022)
Enforcement of The California Consumer Privacy Act Via Letters Noticing Noncompliant Loyalty Programs and Online Tool for Consumers to Notify Businesses of Potential Violations
The California Consumer Privacy Act (“CCPA”), which went into full effect on January 1, 2020, has seen robust enforcement efforts by the office of the California Department of Justice. In late January, California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced an investigative sweep of businesses operating loyalty programs in California and sent notices alleging noncompliance with the CCPA to major corporations in the retail, home improvement, travel, and food services industries. In addition, Attorney General Bonta has encouraged consumers to know and express their privacy rights through an online platform that allows them to directly notify businesses of potential violations.
Continue Reading Enforcement of The California Consumer Privacy Act Via Letters Noticing Noncompliant Loyalty Programs and Online Tool for Consumers to Notify Businesses of Potential Violations