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Online Privacy Seal Programs

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Objective

Publicize the existence of online privacy seal programs that make it easier for U.S. Chamber of Commerce members to engage in e-commerce.

Summary of the Issue

A "seal" is a readily recognizable emblem, voluntarily displayed on a Web site, which signifies that a site has met recognized industry privacy requirements. There are several recognized seal programs that U.S. Chamber members should be aware of when considering how they will address privacy issues.

  • WebTrust – Developed jointly by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants, WebTrust meets the privacy standards established by the Online Privacy Alliance (a group of businesses and associations that promote business-wide actions in order to foster the protection of individuals' privacy online), the European Union, and Canada with regard to business practices and information privacy, transaction integrity, and security.
  • TRUSTe – The Electronic Frontier Foundation and CommerceNet Consortium, Inc. originally founded TRUSTe. The seal is awarded to sites that adhere to TRUSTe's privacy policies of disclosure, choice, access, and security. Operators of Web sites agree to comply with ongoing TRUSTe oversight and alternative dispute resolution processes.
  • BBBOnLine – The Council of Better Business Bureaus has developed this program, which features verification, monitoring and review, consumer dispute resolution, enforcement mechanisms, and an educational component. BBBOnLine meets European Union "safe harbor" requirements.
  • The Platform for Privacy Preferences (P3P) – The World Wide Web Consortium has developed P3P. While not a seal program, P3P is software that enables Internet users to tailor the privacy preferences of their browser.

U.S. Chamber Strategy

  • Host forums and other events designed to educate U.S. Chamber members regarding Internet privacy issues.
  • Partner with BBBOnLine to provide Privacy Made Simple, a do-it-yourself guide to online privacy practices available online.
  • Work through the U.S. Chamber's Telecommunications & E-Commerce Committee to keep the Internet privacy policy current and relevant.

Staff Contact Information

Environment, Technology & Regulatory Affairs Division
(202) 463-5533
environment@uschamber.com