FCC Launches Privacy, Data Protection Task Force

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel has announced the establishment of a new Privacy and Data Protection Task Force. 

The announcement was made during Rosenworcel’s recent speech at the Center for Democracy and Technology Forum on Data Privacy. 

The group will be tasked with identifying and coordinating privacy and data protection needs across the agency, such as equipment authorization and data breach reporting requirements. It will also be tasked with monitoring and raising public awareness of data privacy.

“We live in an era of always-on connectivity,” Rosenworcel said. “Connection is no longer just convenient. It fuels every aspect of modern civic and commercial life. To address the security challenges of this reality head-on, we must protect consumers’ information, ensure data security and require cyber vigilance from every participant in our communications networks,

“This team of FCC experts will lead our efforts to protect consumer privacy.” 

According to Rosenworcel, the task force will be looking at everything from data breaches – such as those involving telecommunications providers and related to cyber intrusions – and supply chain vulnerabilities involving third-party vendors. 

Inquiries into several issues will also form part of its role, including investigations into interconnected Voice Over Internet Protocol, cable, and satellite provider privacy responsibilities, connections between data protection and supply chain integrity, and potential risks to national security through compromised supply chains.

FCC staff will make up the task force, with enforcement bureau chief Loyaan A. Egal appointed as task force leader.