Internet Privacy, Data Security, and Regulation in the Age of Social Media
By Nick Dominguez
Introduction
Heavy Social Media Usage: Americans average 7.1 social media accounts, spending over 2 hours daily.
Data Collection: Social media companies collect vast user data ("big data") for targeted advertising and potentially sell it for research, marketing, and security.
Data Value: Highly valuable to many parties; users often unaware of its worth.
Explanation of the Issue
Historical Development
1990s: Minimal regulation of online platforms; the rise of social media in the 2000s with platforms like MySpace and Facebook.
Rapid Growth: Governments struggled to keep up with fast-paced tech advancements.
Free Platforms: Social media platforms are free for users, generating revenue through data collection and advertising.
Scope of the Problem
Consumer Privacy: Concerns over data breaches and misuse of data. Notable breach examples include T-Mobile and the Facebook-Cambridge Analytica scandal.
National Security: Fears over foreign influence, especially from Russia and China, affecting U.S. elections and propaganda spread.
Ideological Polarization: Algorithms contribute to echo chambers, spreading misinformation and polarization.
Business Implications: Businesses depend heavily on social media for marketing; potential bans (e.g., TikTok) could impact revenue.
Congressional Action
Current Legislation: Limited action; some focus on law enforcement, protecting minors, and stopping sex trafficking.
Proposed Acts:
Algorithmic Justice and Online Platform Transparency Act: Focus on data use and bias.
Internet PACT Act: Content moderation policy publication.
Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act (TikTok ban).
Other Policy Actions
California Consumer Privacy Act: Rights to data transparency and deletion.
Various state and legal actions against companies like Meta.
Ideological Viewpoints
Conservative View
Emphasize censorship concerns and national security.
Generally oppose regulations that curb hate speech, preferring market solutions.
Liberal View
Prioritize limiting hate speech and misinformation; cautious about foreign influence.
More supportive of data privacy and consumer protection measures.
Areas of Debate
Increase Consumer Protection
Regulation: Propose limiting data collection and use, and imposing fines for violations.
Political Perspectives: Potential bipartisan support despite conservative wariness of government overreach.
Increase Data and Algorithm Transparency
Transparency: Require public disclosure of data collection processes and algorithm workings.
Political Perspectives: Unclear stance; potential support due to transparency's benefits.
Fight Foreign Adversarial Influence
Embargo: Ban social media operation in adversarial countries; stricter ad purchase vetting.
Political Perspectives: Potential mixed support; conflicts with market freedom.
Promote Better Content Moderation Practices
Content Standards: Propose a commission to establish moderation standards.
Political Perspectives: Conservatives likely oppose due to First Amendment concerns; liberals may support.
Budgetary Considerations
Impact on Companies: Regulations mainly affect social media firms' revenue and tax contributions.
Enforcement Costs: Consideration for agencies like the FCC or FTC.
Conclusion
Complex challenges involve security, data privacy, and business needs.
Multilateral legislative actions recommended to address diverse issues.
Social media's pervasive role in society underscores the need for balanced regulation that protects users without stifling innovation.
Guide to Further Research
Encourages legislators to review testimonies, bills, and committee progress on these issues.
Glossary
Algorithm: Rules governing website/app operation.
Artificial Intelligence: Systems performing tasks requiring human intelligence.
Big Data: Large, analyzable data sets.
Data Breach: Unauthorized access to sensitive information.
Echo Chamber: Environments reinforcing one's beliefs without exposure to differing ideas.