17 Mar 2009

Privacy rules 'at the heart' of internet security

A new set of privacy rules may promote trust and understanding among online users, according to an industry body.

The Internet Advertising Bureau's (IAB's) new code of good practice is intended to increase online transparency, the organisation claims.

Nick Stringer, head of regulatory affairs at the company, says the new code complements current UK laws aimed at protecting people's information.

"Privacy is at the heart of the future of the internet, it is at the head of the debate. It is so important," he comments.

Mr Stringer adds that the principle creates new rules for organisations that collect and use anonymous data, such as radio and newspaper companies.

He believes the IAB has set a good "starting point" which may lead to other self-regulatory rules being put in place to protect people's privacy.

According to recent research conducted by the IAB, internet users would prefer to have free content on websites which feature advertising, rather than pay for websites which do not have commercials.