Marc Rotenberg

Definition

Marc Rotenberg is a prominent figure in the field of privacy law and technology, known for his advocacy for consumer privacy rights and data protection. He is the founder and executive director of the Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC), which works to protect civil liberties in the digital age through litigation, public policy, and education efforts. His work emphasizes the importance of transparency, accountability, and strong legal frameworks to safeguard personal data against misuse by corporations and government entities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Marc Rotenberg has played a significant role in shaping U.S. privacy law through various legislative efforts and public advocacy.
2. He has participated in numerous discussions and panels regarding the impact of technology on civil liberties, emphasizing the need for comprehensive data protection laws.
3. Rotenberg is known for his criticism of surveillance practices and his push for policies that limit government access to personal data.
4. He has authored several articles and publications that address the intersection of technology, privacy, and human rights.
5. Under his leadership, EPIC has been involved in important legal cases that set precedents for consumer privacy protections in the U.S.

Review Questions

• How has Marc Rotenberg's work with EPIC influenced the landscape of consumer privacy rights?
  • Marc Rotenberg's leadership at EPIC has significantly influenced consumer privacy rights by advocating for stronger legal protections and raising public awareness about privacy issues. Through litigation, policy advocacy, and educational initiatives, EPIC has shaped key discussions surrounding data protection laws. Rotenberg's contributions have helped bring attention to the need for transparency in data collection practices and have led to important changes in how organizations approach consumer privacy.
• Discuss how Marc Rotenberg critiques government surveillance practices and what implications this has for data protection regulations.
  • Marc Rotenberg critiques government surveillance practices by highlighting their potential to infringe on individual privacy rights and undermine democratic principles. He argues that unchecked surveillance can lead to abuse of power and a lack of accountability. This perspective has significant implications for data protection regulations, as it underscores the necessity of establishing strict guidelines that limit government access to personal information while ensuring that individuals maintain control over their own data.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of Marc Rotenberg's approach to enhancing consumer privacy through legal frameworks compared to market-based solutions.
  • Evaluating Marc Rotenberg's approach reveals a strong emphasis on legal frameworks as essential tools for enhancing consumer privacy. Unlike market-based solutions that often rely on corporate goodwill or self-regulation, Rotenberg advocates for comprehensive laws that enforce accountability and transparency. This effectiveness can be seen in the establishment of various data protection regulations, which provide consumers with clear rights regarding their personal information. While market-based solutions can offer flexibility, they often lack the robust protections that legal mandates enforce, making Rotenberg's approach critical in safeguarding consumer privacy.

Related terms

Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC): A nonprofit organization that focuses on protecting civil liberties in the digital age, advocating for privacy rights, and promoting policies that enhance consumer data protection.

Consumer Privacy Rights: The legal rights that individuals have regarding the collection, use, and dissemination of their personal information by businesses and government entities.

Data Protection Regulations: Laws and policies that govern how personal data is collected, processed, stored, and shared, ensuring individuals' rights to privacy and data security.