Online privacy

Overview
It is routinely acknowledged that the success of the Internet and electronic commerce depends upon the resolution of issues related to the privacy and security of online personal information. Threats to the privacy of personal information arise primarily as a result of the widespread increase in the availability and use of computers and computer networks, the corresponding increase in the disclosure of personal information by Internet users to Web sites, the routine collection of personal information about online users by Web sites, and the utilization of online personal information for direct marketing and advertising purposes. The potential harm that can occur from unauthorized disclosures of such information has been well documented.4 Increased availability of online personal information has contributed to the growth of the information industry.

Technological safeguards, such as encryption, are viewed as tools to enhance computer security and protect privacy. Encryption also has the potential to impede the ability of law enforcement and national security agencies to access electronic communications.5