Question: What's your view on the use of encryption technology for protecting the privacy of citizens and companies? Do you favor legislation substantively easing export restrictions for strong encryption technology or use of encryption technology on the Inter
Submitted from Ronin Developer of Slashdot through Web White & Blue 2000 (10/30/00)
Answer from George W. Bush:
Protecting Privacy
I believe that strong encryption products enhance consumer privacy.
In October 1999, I proposed fundamental reform of the U.S. high technology export system -- including encryption export laws -- to allow companies to export products when those products are already readily available in foreign or mass markets, while building high walls around technologies of the highest sensitivity. The current system needlessly penalizes U.S. businesses while failing to strengthen our national security.
Strong encryption products are an important tool that gives Americans absolute control over his or her personal information. I believe that it is especially important to protect highly sensitive medical, genetic, and financial information.
I share many people's concerns that, with the advent of the Internet, personal privacy is increasingly at risk, and I am committed to protecting personal privacy for everyone. Though industry now appears to be making some efforts to meet consumer demands for privacy protection, as President I will ensure:
Notice and Consent. Everyone has the right to know what information is collected and how it will be used, and to accept or decline the collection or dissemination of this information - particularly financial and medical information.
Access. Individuals have the right to correct any inaccurate personal information.
Security. Institutions must provide sufficient security to prevent unauthorized access to personal information.
The Clinton Administration has repeatedly been slow to recognize the realities of the international market for encryption products regulated by our nation's export laws. Rather than act in a timely way to keep export limits in line with technology available from foreign sources, the Administration has threatened exporters with outdated rules blocking sales of widely available commercial technology.
In addition, unlike Gore's "reinvented" government which has failed to protect the personal information of Americans, my own Web site sets a high privacy standard. The August 17, 2000 Los Angeles Times "E-Review" examines the two major campaigns Web sites and concludes, "If the presidential election were based on Internet sites, E-Review would give the edge to Texas Gov. George W. Bush." At GeorgeWBush.com, "visitors still must opt in to be included on Bush's mailing lists. E-commerce sites that profess to care about protecting their customers' privacy would do well to follow this lead."
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