Today, voluminous amounts of data traverse wired and wireless networks as we use of any number of communications devices, including smartphones, computers, tablets, watches, and vehicles. As a result of the types of services they provide, the telecommunications and information and communications technology services sectors have access to this massive amount of sensitive information, raising both consumer privacy and national security concerns.
The Enforcement Bureau (EB or Bureau) recognizes that assessing and addressing these issues require strategic partnerships with other government authorities. Communications services-related data cut across territorial boundaries, and privacy/data protection/cybersecurity investigations have become increasingly complex with the growing use of emerging technologies in our communications networks. The sharing of information, resources, and expertise among regulators is fundamental to effective enforcement.
To date, the Bureau has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with six State Attorneys General. We announced agreements with Connecticut, Illinois, New York, and Pennsylvania in December 2023; and with Oregon and the District of Columbia in March 2024. The FCC also has similar agreements with the Federal Trade Commission, the Unsolicited Communications Enforcement Network (UCENet), the UK Office of Communications (ICO), the UK Office of Communications (OfCom), and the Privacy Commissioner of Canada.
These agreements play a critical role in protecting American’s communications data, and the Bureau welcomes establishing additional partnerships.