Everyone knows the stress of travel. Whether it’s a cross-country flight to visit relatives, a road trip for a kids’ sports tournament, or a family getaway to the beach in the next state over. There are always travel plans to make and logistics to juggle. Our cellphones help make this easier, from mobile boarding passes to directions that avoid traffic, and even seamless music and video streaming while on the go.
One thing we rarely consider in these moments, however, is how our data is protected while crossing state lines. When it comes to data privacy, it’s easy to assume that the law ensures equal protection of our information as we travel from state to state. However, despite growing concern about data protection, a federal standard still doesn’t exist.
In its absence, states are jumping in with their own bills throughout the country. Today, there are 20 states that have comprehensive data privacy laws in place, with a few others that have introduced narrower privacy bills. As not all provisions in each state are the same, this state-by-state approach creates confusing and inconsistent laws. Today, this is especially important as we benefit firsthand from wireless technology shaping an AI-driven future. Our trust in next-generation wireless innovation, and the speed at which it continues to evolve, is dependent on a clear nationwide privacy standard.
Using Wireless Your Way. Anywhere.
Of course, we don’t just use wireless for travel. Data use over wireless networks is soaring. According to a recent survey, Americans used 132 trillion megabytes of data last year, the largest jump ever in data use recorded. That means that, more than ever, we’re relying on our wireless devices, using new apps, and new services, at home and wherever the day takes us. All of this while wireless is more affordable than ever.
There are countless other examples of wireless data crossing state lines.
When shopping, for example, it is easy to scroll to find the perfect thing. It’s even easier to type in a credit card number, or click a button, to use Apple Pay or Samsung Wallet. The experience is even enjoyable. No more going to the store just to find the item isn’t in stock. No more digging in a drawer or handbag for the checkbook. Now it can all be done right from your phone.
We also use wireless devices for innovative healthcare solutions. From telehealth visits to smartwatches, life-enhancing care has never been more accessible. We’re tracking everything from the number of steps we take to our health data and recovery scores. It’s no surprise then that the demand for wearable technology is surging along with the data we use with it.
Everyday Tips to Protect Your Privacy
From travel, to shopping and healthcare, and all of the wireless conveniences in between, we deserve to feel confident that our data is being handled correctly. A strong federal data privacy law can help protect us, ensuring greater security, less confusion, and more consistency.
The call for a national privacy framework has never been greater to ensure we all have the same protections across states, platforms, and devices. While these conversations are unfolding in Washington, and until there is a unified set of principles, understanding privacy policies and what choices you can make can go a long way in protecting your personal information online.
Join ACTwireless today to stay updated on how you can support policies that keep America’s wireless future strong and secure.
