Topic: Electronic Privacy Information Center

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FISA 101: 10 key dates in the evolution of NSA surveillance

When news of the PRISM data collection and surveillance program broke in early June 2013, it shook up the cyber security debate, and called into question just how much information the US government is authorized to collect. But government data collection isn’t something that just sprang up out of nowhere – it just sprang into national attention after former National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden leaked government documents about the secret government agency. Here’s a brief list of post-9/11 legislation and surveillance programs to add a historical perspective to the current government surveillance debate.

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FISA 101: 10 key dates in the evolution of NSA surveillance

When news of the PRISM data collection and surveillance program broke in early June 2013, it shook up the cyber security debate, and called into question just how much information the US government is authorized to collect. But government data collection isn’t something that just sprang up out of nowhere – it just sprang into national attention after former National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden leaked government documents about the secret government agency. Here’s a brief list of post-9/11 legislation and surveillance programs to add a historical perspective to the current government surveillance debate.
Google Glass worries lawmakers, casino operators

New wearable computers are drawing concerns from some about policy and privacy issues. Others say such worries stem primarily from a fear of change. Discussions continue about the appropriate place for such technology in varied social situations.
Supreme Court refuses e-mail privacy case, leaving divergent opinions intact

Does federal privacy law protect personal e-mail from prying eyes? Lower courts conflict, but the Supreme Court on Monday declined to take a case that might have clarified the extent of protections.
Secret US cybersecurity program to protect power grid confirmed

The National Security Agency is spearheading a program, dubbed Perfect Citizen, to develop technology to protect the power grid from cyberattack. The project worries privacy rights groups.
Instagram uproar: A testing ground for Facebook? (+video)

A popular photo sharing site owned by Facebook, Instagram released new terms of service on Monday. Now Instagram users have a month to decide how much control over their data they are willing to give up.
Texas test case: Do school IDs with locator chips violate religious freedom?

A Texas student has has sued her school district, which tried to transfer her when she refused to participate in program that introduced ID badges with locator chips.
Kid apps: Are mobile providers protecting your child's privacy?

It can be hard for parents to decipher whether or not mobile apps are collecting and selling sensitive information about their kids, such as location and purchasing habits. But some are working to make the muddy world of app privacy policies a little more clear and help parents worry about kid apps less.
Horizons Google gets $25K fine for 'impeding' FCC probe into Street View

The FCC has fined Google $25K for stonewalling government investigators.
White House releases 'privacy bill of rights': what it promises online consumers

While falling short of law, the consumer 'privacy bill of rights' would give consumers 'new legal and technical tools to safeguard their privacy,' according to the White House.
Horizons Facebook tracking now under federal investigation

Facebook tracking triggers another round of criticism for the social network. This time, the FTC is offering the company a settlement over a legal complaint, while a Senate committee starts to ask: is Facebook tracking both users and non-users?
11/17/2011 11:06 am
Facebook caught starting smear campaign about Google

Facebook was caught red handed using a PR firm to try to spread negative news stories about Google through the mainstream press.
05/13/2011 03:41 am
TSA aimed to put body scanners in public places

TSA denies it used airport body scanners elsewhere. But documents show it tested similar technology at a commuter train station in New Jersey and signed contracts for more scanning in public places.
03/04/2011 11:14 am
TSA screenings at airports too invasive? 'Opt Out' protest planned.

Internet grass-roots groups urge passengers to 'Opt Out' of the digital whole-body imaging scan on the day before Thanksgiving. The alternative to these TSA screenings is an 'enhanced' pat-down.
11/16/2010 02:24 pm
Internet privacy: Could the US make internet wiretaps easier?

Internet privacy advocates have already condemned the push to make it easier for the government to tap into internet and e-mail communications.
09/28/2010 05:07 pm
The New Economy Privacy issues hit Facebook again

Privacy issues are again at the center of debate over whether Facebook is doing enough to protect its users.
07/30/2010 05:14 pm
White House declassifies parts of US cybersecurity plan

At the RSA security conference Tuesday, the White House declassified cybersecurity plan when Obama administration cybersecurity czar Howard Schmidt revealed 12 broad elements of the 2008 Comprehensive National Cybersecurity Initiative.
03/02/2010 09:01 pm
Why Europe doesn't want an invasion of body scanners

In Europe, body scanners may simply not be cost-effective, regardless of whether they represent a real health risk or the digital equivalent of a strip search.
01/26/2010 02:02 pm
Facebook faces (another) challenge over users' privacy

Five Facebook users this week sued the social networking giant, alleging it improperly used their private information or intellectual property.
08/21/2009 01:00 am
The Internet Safety Act launches a new battle on privacy

Column: Children need to be protected online, but these new bills go too far.
02/25/2009 12:00 am
Horizons About Facebook's about-face

02/18/2009 12:00 am
More extensive tourist fingerprinting comes to U.S. ports

America's JFK Airport is the 10th port of entry requiring noncitizen visitors to scan all 10 fingers.
03/27/2008 01:00 am