Protecting Privacy Requires Private Rights of Action, Not Forced Arbitration

Over the past few years, the major US mobile carriers have been in the spotlight over allegations that they have been selling their subscribers’ real-time geolocation data, including highly precise assisted GPS (A-GPS) information designed for use with “Enhanced 911” (E911).  Today, broadband providers that also provide telecommunications services are not subject to any comprehensive federal privacy law. America needs comprehensive privacy legislation that fully protects consumers’ right to privacy, adequately equips law enforcement agencies, and provides consumers with a private right of action -- which would allow private parties to bring a lawsuit based on the harm they suffered. T-Mobile’s attempt to force victims into arbitration also demonstrates that any privacy law should include a prohibition on forced arbitration agreements so victims can have their day in court individually, or as a class to seek redress.