Public Workshop: The Mobile Wireless Web, Data Services and Beyond: Emerging Technologies and Consumer Issues

摘要

Wireless technologies are opening up many new opportunities for consumers. Wireless Internet technologies provide access to the wireless World Wide Web ('Web'), allowing consumers to obtain valuable information and engage in fast and efficient commercial transactions. Wireless data technologies, such as instant messaging and Short Message Service (SMS) systems, allow consumers to communicate anytime, and from many locations. However, the growth of these technologies has also raised privacy, security, and other consumer protection issues. On December 11 and 12, 2000, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) held a public workshop to educate itself and the public about emerging wireless technologies and to provide a forum for discussion of the consumer protection issues raised by these technologies. During the workshop, numerous industry experts and consumer advocates gave informative presentations and participated in panel discussions. This report summarizes the issues discussed during the workshop. It highlights areas of consensus and records the issues upon which participants did not agree. It is a resource for readers who want to learn more about emerging wireless technologies and the consumer protection issues they raise. The workshop was organized into five basic topic areas: (1) an overview of the technologies and the issues raised by them; (2) privacy issues; (3) security issues; (4) advertising and disclosures; and (5) self-regulatory programs.