WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to today’s Federal Trade Commission report describing social media, streaming, digital advertising, and other online services as “commercial surveillance,” IAB CEO David Cohen issued the following statement:

“While we are still digesting the report, we are disappointed with the FTC’s continued characterization of the digital advertising industry as engaged in ‘mass commercial surveillance’. This charged statement suggests that the personal data of consumers is covertly collected and used for advertising purposes. Nothing could be further from the truth, as countless studies have shown that consumers understand the value exchange and welcome the opportunity to have access to free or highly subsidized content and services.

“We have long advocated for consumers to have certain rights that empower them to limit the use of their personal data, including for advertising purposes. The states have been leading the way in developing laws that define consumer rights including access, deletion, and the right to opt out of the sale of personal data and for 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 vehemently supports a comprehensive national data privacy law. Congress, rather than a federal agency, should balance consumers’ privacy rights, competition and the value exchange between consumers and publishers. The IAB and its members will continue to advocate for consumer privacy, transparency, and the ability for all participants in the digital economy to conduct business. Our collective goal should be to ensure that all Americans can access valuable content and services while preserving their privacy and their preferences.”

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

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