Software (7992)

US groups campaigning for "Do Not Track" lists

Calls for creation of opt-out options

1 November 2007 11:24 GMT / By Amy-Mae Elliott

The Center for Democracy and Technology, Electronic Frontier Foundation and the Consumer Federation of America are calling for the creation of an opt-out list for internet users.

The privacy campaigners want a "do not track" list that would stop companies from "watching" user's web habits and tailoring adverts based on preferences.

The proposed scheme, in the States, would means advertisers that place cookies or tags on consumers' computers have to register with the FTC all domain names of the servers involved.

Should it go through, this will not be a popular move with big business - Google, Yahoo and Microsoft are all big investors in the social advertising market.

Full tags

Software, Websites, Online, Biz