Privacy Online

Accelerated technological change and globalisation create new challenges and opportunities for governments, businesses and the general public. The increasing use of online communication over public networks has drawn attention to privacy as a fundamental social value that concerns one and all. OECD countries recognise the need for comprehensive and consistent policies that build confidence in the online world and make it possible to develop its potential for economic and social well-being. This volume draws together OECD work to date on measures for ensuring effective privacy protection on global networks while continuing to allow the transborder flow of personal data. It argues for a blend of regulatory and self-regulatory approaches, including legal, technical and educational solutions, suited to the cultural and social context in which they operate. It draws attention to the need for the committed, complementary and co-operative involvement of all actors in society. This book contains specific policy and practical guidance to assist governments, businesses and individuals in promoting privacy protection online at national and international levels. It proposes ways of adopting and posting privacy policies, mechanisms for enforcement and redress, and means of promoting education and user awareness. The volume is part of the OECD’s continuing efforts to promote respect for important rights, and open and transparent economies and societies.