Concerns Mount Ahead of Tech CEO Congressional Hearing

In anticipation of an upcoming congressional hearing on March 25 – where the CEOs of Facebook, Google, and Twitter will again face questioning regarding misinformation – a diverse coalition is advocating for a ban on surveillance advertising.

A Broad Coalition Calls for Change

Nearly 40 organizations spanning privacy, antitrust, consumer protection, and civil rights are united in this call. These groups argue that the current business practices of large technology companies are detrimental to democratic processes.

Key organizations involved include the American Economic Liberties Project, the Campaign for a Commercial Free Childhood, and the Center for Digital Democracy. Others contributing to this effort are the Center for Humane Technology, Epic.org, Fair Vote, Media Matters for America, the Tech Transparency Project, and The Real Facebook Oversight Board.

The Core Argument: Protecting Democracy

The coalition emphasizes a shared concern for community safety and the integrity of democracy. They contend that social media platforms are undermining shared understanding and jeopardizing public safety to prioritize a harmful and exploitative business model.

Their open letter explicitly states the need to ban surveillance advertising as a crucial step towards addressing these issues.

Alternative Advertising Models Exist

The groups highlight the availability of less intrusive advertising methods, such as contextual ads. They also suggest that increased transparency and oversight of adtech infrastructure could mitigate problems like low-quality content, conspiracy theories, ad fraud, and stifled innovation.

While acknowledging that a single solution is unlikely, the coalition agrees on the urgency of banning surveillance advertising.

A Multifaceted Approach to Reform

The coalition recognizes the need for a comprehensive strategy. Members will continue to pursue various policy changes, including comprehensive privacy legislation and reforms to antitrust laws and liability standards.

However, a ban on surveillance advertising is viewed as a fundamental and immediate priority.

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