IAB Challenges FTC Characterization of Digital Advertising, Supports Consumer Protections

WASHINGTON, DC – In response to the Federal Trade Commission report today Describing social media, streaming, digital advertising and other online services as “commercial surveillance,” IAB CEO David Cohen released the following statement:

“While we are still digesting the report, we are disappointed by the FTC’s continued characterization of the digital advertising industry as engaged in ‘mass commercial surveillance.’ and used for advertising purposes. Nothing could be further from the truth, as countless studies have shown that consumers understand the value trade-off and welcome the opportunity to have access to free content and services or very subsidized.

“We have long advocated for consumers to have certain rights that allow them to limit the use of their personal data, even for advertising purposes. The states have led the way in the development of laws that define the rights of consumers including access, deletion and the right to opt out of the sale of personal data and targeted advertising.These laws often impose obligations on companies to engage in sound data management practices such as data minimization.

“We believe that consumers in all 50 states should enjoy these rights, which is why the IAB strongly supports a comprehensive national data privacy law. Congress, rather than a federal agency, should balance the privacy rights of consumers consumers, competition and the exchange of value between consumers and publishers. The IAB and its members continue to promote consumer privacy, transparency and ability for all participants in the digital economy of doing business. Our collective goal should be to ensure that all Americans can access valuable content and services while preserving their privacy and preferences.”

About IAB
The Interactive Advertising Bureau enables the media and marketing industry to thrive in the digital economy. Its membership includes more than 700 media companies, brands, agencies and technology companies responsible for selling, delivering and optimizing digital advertising marketing campaigns. The trade group fields critical research on interactive advertising, while also educating brands, agencies and the wider business community about the importance of digital marketing. In affiliation with the IAB Tech Lab, IAB develops standards and technical solutions. IAB is committed to professional development and raising the knowledge, skills, competence and diversity of the workforce across the industry. Through the work of its public policy office in Washington, DC, the trade association advocates for its members and promotes the value of the interactive advertising industry to legislators and policy makers. Founded in 1996, IAB is headquartered in New York City.

Contact IAB Media
Kate Tumino / Brittany Tibaldi
212-896-1252 / 347-487-6794
[email protected]/[email protected]