Will Australia's proposed digital data retention law put its citizens at risk?

Governments around the world are trying to determine how to implement digital public policy that takes into account how people are utilizing social media and other new technology platforms. Unfortunately, some lawmakers and governments are making proposals that may have unintended side effects.

For example, the Australian government recently proposed a digital data retention law that may create an undue burden on Internet service providers and technology companies. In addition, this proposal sharply curtails Internet users' digital privacy and creates more opportunities for cyber criminals. According to Computerworld, if enacted the new law would require technology companies to retain their users' data for up to two years which may include their customers' web surfing history information.

Putting aside the privacy issues, the Australian government may not realize that the more data a company is required to collect the greater its compliance costs and cyber liability insurance premiums. More data retention means increased server costs, higher electricity bills, greater security costs, etc....

While the intention of the proposed law is noble in that the government believes the law would assist in fighting crime, there may be some unintended side effects. When companies collect more data about their customers they become bigger targets for cyber criminals.

Therefore, it is imperative for governments to create sound digital public policy that properly weighs all of these concerns.

To learn more about these issues you may contact me at www.shearlaw.com.

Copyright 2012 by the Law Office of Bradley S. Shear, LLC All rights reserved.