P2P USERS DESERVE TO BE INFORMED ABOUT PRIVACY, SECURITY RISKS
Noting the potential privacy and security risks associated with popular peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack (R-CA), joined by Congressman John Barrow (D-GA) and Ranking Member of the Energy and Commerce Committee Joe Barton (R-TX), today introduced the Informed P2P User Act, H.R. 7176, which will help make Internet users more aware of the inherent privacy and security risks associated with P2P file sharing programs.
“Most people don´t realize that when they connect to a peer-to-peer network, files on their computer – including highly personal information such as tax returns and medical records – could be available to millions of other users on the network,” said Bono Mack. “Users deserve to know – in fair and simple terms – about this potential risk to their private information. This bill will empower individual computer users by making them aware and keep them from inadvertently sharing their private personal information.”
Peer-to-peer (P2P) programs allow Internet users within the same networking program to connect with each other and directly access files from each other´s computers. Since Napster, the first such program, numerous other file-sharing programs have been launched and have become one of the fastest-growing uses of Internet technology.
Bono Mack notes that in addition to the privacy and security risks, P2P networks are often associated with users´ ability to share copyrighted material over the Internet. P2P software is also commonly used to introduce “spyware” or “adware” and can spread viruses, worms, and other malicious computer files.
Specifically, Bono Mack´s bill:
Ensures that P2P file sharing programs cannot be installed without clear notice and consent of the authorized computer user.
Makes it unlawful to prevent the authorized user of a computer to prevent reasonable efforts to: 1) Block the installation of a peer-to-peer file sharing program, and 2) Disable or remove any peer-to-peer file sharing program.
Gives the Federal Trade Commission (FCC) authority to enforce this legislation.