Privacy Law Commons^™

The Usa Patriot Act: An Analysis Of Student Reaction Toward Governmental Access To Library Records, Kathryn A. Fifield

Undergraduate Honors Capstone Projects

The USA Patriot Act has created a furor of opinion among the library community. Many oppose the Act's affect on First Amendment rights and governmental access to library records. To investigate the opinion of Utah State University students, a survey was conducted among a random sample of 100 students. The results indicated that student opinion conforms to conservative Utah as most of the respondents believe the government can access library records if they have a court issued search warrant. Students felt it important that the suspect be informed of the investigation. Only 22% of respondents had heard of the Patriot …

The Rehnquist Court And The Devolution Of The Right To Privacy, Scott P. Johnson, Robert M. Alexander

West Virginia Law Review

No abstract provided.

Snake-Oil Security Claims The Systematic Misrepresentation Of Product Security In The E-Commerce Arena, John R. Michener, Steven D. Mohan, James B. Astrachan, David R. Hale

Michigan Telecommunications & Technology Law Review

The modern commercial systems and software industry in the United States have grown up in a snake-oil salesman's paradise. The largest sector of this industry by far is composed of standard commercial systems that are marketed to provide specified functionality (e.g. Internet web server, firewall, router, etc.) Such products are generally provided with a blanket disclaimer stating that the purchaser must evaluate the suitability of the product for use, and that the user assumes all liability for product behavior. In general, users cannot evaluate and cannot be expected to evaluate the security claims of a product. The ability to analyze …

The Absentee Ballot And The Secret Ballot: Challenges For Election Reform, John C. Fortier, Norman J. Ornstein

University of Michigan Journal of Law Reform

Reforms in the recently enacted federal election reform legislation primarily address improving voting at a polling place, but there is a growing share of the electorate who vote away from the polling place through increased use of absentee ballots and vote-by-mail systems. Voters who vote away from the polling place do not have the same protections as those at the polling place. In particular, these voters do not have a secret ballot, as any ballot cast without a drawn curtain behind oneself is potentially subject to coercion, vote buying and fraud.

This Article looks at the tension between the Australian …

Rescuing The Balance?: An Assessment Of Canada's Proposal To Limit Isp Liability For Online Copyright Infringement, Scott Nesbitt

Canadian Journal of Law and Technology

This paper attempts both to explain the technological and legal imperatives pressing Canada to address the issue of ISP liability in reforms to the Copyright Act and to raise some concerns about the impact of the government’s proposed amendments in this area. The basic elements of copyright law, the impact of digital technology on copyright and the policy arguments surrounding ISP liability are briefly discussed to set the context for judicial treatment of and legislative action on this issue. Next, the paper focuses on the development of American jurisprudence with respect to limitation of ISP liability for third party copyright …

Patent First, Litigate Later! The Scramble For Speculative And Overly Broad Genetic Patents: Implications For Access To Health Care And Biomedical Research, Ikechi Mgbeoji, Byron Allen

Canadian Journal of Law and Technology

This paper will not directly address the ethical considerations of allowing patents on human genetic sequences, although this continues to be a controversial debate in itself. Rather, the aim is to consider the legality of such gene patents and the effects such patents have on biomedical research and health care delivery in definitive terms through an analysis of current developments and research relating to the subject. The operation of current intellectual property regimes regulating such patents will be examined, and amendments to these legal systems will be considered. An emphasis will be placed on identifying practical concerns rather than broad, …

Beyond Convergence And The New Media Decisions: Regulatory Models In Communications Law, Melanie Mortensen

Canadian Journal of Law and Technology

While technological and economic changes have been the most influential factors in stimulating recent policy and regulatory reassessments in Canada with respect to telecommunications and broadcasting regulation, public interest and socio-political concerns should also remain significant in the design of new regulatory and policy responses to convergence and competition. When the CRTC announced that it would refrain from regulating broadcasting in new media for a period of five years, this occasion illustrated the increasing inapplicability of the sector-specific legislation from which the mandate of the CRTC is derived.

The first model addressed is the present sector-specific policy and regulatory treatment …

Fast Track Trade Authority And The Free Trade Agreements: Implications For Copyright Law, Samuel Trosow

Canadian Journal of Law and Technology

In 2002, Congress passed the Bipartisan Trade Promotion Authority Act, which restored the presidential fast-track trade-promotion authority that had lapsed in 1994. Fast-track trade promotion authority is a means by which Congress delegates to the president a portion of its constitutional authority over international trade policy. This paper reviews the development, scope, and application of fast-track trade-promotion authority, evaluates some of the copyright provisions in key Free Trade Agreements, and concludes that the process has been effectively captured by the information and entertainment industries. There are numerous negative consequences that flow from the resulting policy environment. Not only is an …

The Emperor Has No Clothes: A Critique Of Applying The European Union Approach To Privacy Regulation In The United States, David R. Nijhawan

Vanderbilt Law Review

Internet users in the United States and the European Union ("EU") often debate the state of international data privacy, while scholars and companies also present questions to the Internet community regarding the regulation of data privacy and the amount of regulation required in the U.S. Inquiries range from how to determine the necessary degree of regulation and how to implement regulations to how to enforce any regulations that the U.S. lawmakers may pass. Historically, the EU and the U.S. approach data privacy regulations in diametrically opposed ways. While the EU relies primarily on legislation and heavy regulation, the U.S. has …

Muddy Property: Generating And Protecting Information Privacy Norms In Bankruptcy, Edward J. Janger

Faculty Scholarship

No abstract provided.

Recognizing The Societal Value In Information Privacy, James P. Nehf

Washington Law Review

Much has been written about database privacy in the Internet Age, most of it critical of the way in which the American legal system addresses the issue. In this article, Professor Nehf maintains that one of the fundamental difficulties with the public policy debates is that information privacy is often discussed as a typical consumer problem rather than a problem of more general societal concern. As a result, arguments over appropriate resolutions reduce to a balancing of individual rights against more general societal interests, such as increased efficiency in law enforcement, government operations or commercial enterprise. Although privacy scholars discussed …

Message Deleted? Resolving Physician-Patient E-Mail Through Contract Law, Michael Mccann

Law Faculty Scholarship

This article examines the impact of e-mail on the physician-patient relationship, and how contract law can resolve the uncertainties incumbent in this nascent form of communication. Significantly, courts have yet to indicate when the physician-patient relationship begins by e-mail, or to what extent e-mail affects the duties of the relationship. Instead of waiting for judicial guidance, physicians and patients can employ specialized contracts to clarify the role that e-mail plays in their relationship. As a result, more physicians and patients will regard e-mail correspondence as a valuable means of communication, and a tool for improving the quality of health care …

International Data Transfer Out Of The European Union: The Adequate Level Of Data Protection According To Article 25 Of The European Data Protection Directive, 21 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 553 (2003), Alexander Zinser

UIC John Marshall Journal of Information Technology & Privacy Law

Article 25 of the European Data Protection Directive provides a set of standards that are to be used by countries in the European Union when personal data processed in the particular member country transfers such information to third countries. This directive dictates that it must be ascertained, before transferring such personal information, that the third country ensures an adequate level of protection. Zinser initially examines the history and scope of Article 25 of the European Data Protection Directive before examining each of the standards and factors contained therein, with regard to the transfer of such information. He offers analysis of …

Cloning, Public Policy And The Constitution, 21 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 271 (2003), Lowell Ben Krahn

UIC John Marshall Journal of Information Technology & Privacy Law

This comment analyzes the safety and implications of human cloning, including whether cloning is encompassed by the fundamental right to privacy. The article also addresses the legislative attempts at banning cloning, and urges the government to do so.

The Anticybersquatting Consumer Protection Act: An Analysis Of The Decisions From The Courts Of Appeals, 21 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 355 (2003), Sue Ann Mota

UIC John Marshall Journal of Information Technology & Privacy Law

This article examines the published decisions of the First, Second, Third, Fourth, Sixth, and Ninth Circuit Courts of Appeals in which there have been interpretations of the Anticybersquatting Consumer Protection Act (APCA). The article provides summaries of all cases interpreting the ACPA at the time of writing. These cases include: Sporty’s Farm L.L.C. v. Sportman’s Market, Inc.; Northern Light Technology, Inc. v. Northern Lights Club; Sallen v. Corinthians Licenciamentos LTDA; Shields v. Zuccarini; Virtual Works, Inc. v. Volkswagen of America, Inc.; People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals v. Doughney; Porsche Cars North America, Inc. v. Porsche.net; Harrods Limited v. …

Limiting Exposure For Internet Vendors: Separating The Wheat From The Chaff, 21 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 207 (2003), Todd V. Mackey

UIC John Marshall Journal of Information Technology & Privacy Law

This article explains how using the Internet to market products may subject a vendor to exposure in unanticipated jurisdictions. The author includes a proposal to minimize those risks by suggesting the use of contracts of adhesion, including mandatory forum selection clauses, and having them executed by the customer in the course of the transaction so that the vendor may insulate itself from those jurisdictional risks.

Congress And The Courts Battle Over The First Amendment: Can The Law Really Protect Children From Pornography On The Internet?, 21 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 141 (2003), Mitchell P. Goldstein

UIC John Marshall Journal of Information Technology & Privacy Law

Litigation and court action have provided little in the way of providing solutions to anyone dealing with inappropriate content on the Internet. In Miller v. California, 413 U.S. 15 (1973). The court refused to establish a national standard and instead relied on community standards. Because the Internet has no geographic limitations, one cannot determine community standards because the Internet is so far reaching. Goldstein discusses in detail these Congressional enactments: Communications Decency Act of 1996, the Child Online Protection Act, and the Child Pornography Prevention Act of 1996, finding that none of them give children protection from pornography. The challenge …

Trade Secret Reclamation: An Equitable Approach In A Relative World, 21 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 227 (2003), William L. O'Brien

UIC John Marshall Journal of Information Technology & Privacy Law

The only possible IP protection is a trade secret. However, trade secrets are inadvertently disclosed in investment disclosures or to prospective customers. The article offers a solution to this dilemma by creating emphasis on the continued retention of the secret, even though confidentiality of it could have been dissipating.

Copy Protection Of Cds: The Recording Industry's Latest Attempt At Preventing The Unauthorized Digital Distribution Of Music, 21 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 241 (2003), Amy K. Jensen

UIC John Marshall Journal of Information Technology & Privacy Law

This comment focuses on the need of the music industry to control the use and digital distribution of music. The author also addresses the privacy issues that arise through the various methods the music industry implements in order to control the unauthorized distribution of digital music via computer technology. The author particularly addresses the privacy issues that arise with the use of undetectable signals that send information about a consumer’s use of that Compact Disc over computer lines, all unbeknownst and unauthorized by the consumer.

Alcatel Usa, Inc. V. Brown: Does Your Boss Own Your Brain?, 21 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 295 (2003), Jim C. Lai

UIC John Marshall Journal of Information Technology & Privacy Law

Critizing the Alcatel USA, Inc. v. Brown court’s holding that a company owned rights to a software idea that existed entirely in the thoughts of one of it’s former employee’s. Discusses how the court did not take into account that (1) the invention disclosure agreement it secured from the employer was unenforceable, (2) the Solution was not an “invention” as recognized by U.S. intellectual property law, and (3) the development of an automatic decompiler was not within the scope of the company’s business or employee’s work. Arguing while it is reasonable for an employer to require its employees to disclose …

Curbing Copyright Infringement In Cyberspace: Using Mediakey To Stop The Bleeding, 21 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 325 (2003), John R. Perkins Jr.

UIC John Marshall Journal of Information Technology & Privacy Law

This article discusses a solution to copyright infringement on the Internet. The solution combines legal and technical aspects so the solution is very specific but also practical. The paper proposes a solution to use technological protection similar to that found in the federal statute prohibiting circumvention of technological protection measures. The paper then concludes with how difficult his solution and other proposed changes will be to enact because of opposition it will receive from many sides.

Caging The Bird Does Not Cage The Song: How The International Covenant On Civil And Political Rights Fails To Protect Free Expression Over The Internet, 21 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 371 (2003), Antoine L. Collins

UIC John Marshall Journal of Information Technology & Privacy Law

This comment addresses the right to free speech on the Internet. The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, an instrument designed to protect the rights of individuals to free speech and expression, is analyzed for effectiveness. The author argues that the “ICCPR”, the most recent international human rights agreement, does not adequately protect Internet users, particularly from governments that may choose to violate citizens’ rights by interfering with computerized communications. The analysis of the “ICCPR” illustrates the purpose, capabilities and weaknesses of the agreement, and offers proposed changes to the act, to protect the rights of both the individual …

The “Cost” Of Securing Domestic Air Travel, 21 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 405 (2003), Eric J. Miller

UIC John Marshall Journal of Information Technology & Privacy Law

This comment explores the security measures utilized for airline travel. Early airport security is compared to post 911 airport security. Various traveler search methods are analyzed against the backdrop of the Fourth and Fifth Amendments. Included is an analysis of effectiveness, legality, and policy considerations of current security measures. Finally, the author proposes alternative security measures addressing the effectiveness, legality and policy considerations of such proposed solutions.

Expanding The Dmca: The Importance Of Regulating Computer Code, 21 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 575 (2003), Luke Antonsen

UIC John Marshall Journal of Information Technology & Privacy Law

No abstract provided.

Online Collaborative Media And Political Economy Of Information: A Case Study, 21 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 515 (2003), Caio M. S. Pereira Neto

UIC John Marshall Journal of Information Technology & Privacy Law

No abstract provided.

Locked Out: The New Hazards Of Reverse Engineering, 21 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 601 (2003), Carla Meninsky

UIC John Marshall Journal of Information Technology & Privacy Law

In this article, Meninsky contends the technological practice of reverse engineering of replacements parts and other interoperable products, which has been used to circumvent digital locks and otherwise gain access to copyrighted material and information protected as trade secrets, has been upheld by courts as fair use. This practice is discussed within the context of the Digital Millenium Copyright Act (“DMCA”), which prohibits methods employed to “circumvent a technological measure that effectively controls access to a copyrighted work” while providing a limited exemption for reverse engineers in certain circumstances. Meninsky finds that the DMCA, in effect, thwarts competition, stunts technological …

Are You Content With The Content? Intellectual Property Implications Of Weblog Publishing, 21 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 439 (2003), Attiya Malik

UIC John Marshall Journal of Information Technology & Privacy Law

The publicity about weblogs has neglected to warn against the risks of legal liability. Whether you want to impart words of wisdom or copy something that caught your interest, the temptation to "borrow" is too great and too easy in Cyberspace. Whereas the typical Internet user may have heard of "copyright" or "trademark," they are unaware of the complexities and nuances of these areas of law. The legal tests and standards may be too sophisticated for the average user. Even practitioners and courts are grappling with what legal standards and interpretations are to be applied in Cyberspace, thus, leading to …

Spam Legislation In The United States, 22 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 3 (2003), David E. Sorkin

UIC John Marshall Journal of Information Technology & Privacy Law

This article examines the effect of spam legislation in the United States. It discusses state legislation and the common provisions of state spam legislation, such as disclosure and labeling requirements and opt-out provisions. It also analyzes the consequences of state anti-spam legislation. Federal legislation is analyzed, with a brief look at the CAN-SPAM Act of 2003. The article concludes that legislation has not had a big impact on spam, and the CAN-SPAM Act is not likely to change or curb spam.

The Do-Not-Call Registry Model Is Not The Answer To Spam, 22 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 79 (2003), Richard C. Balough

UIC John Marshall Journal of Information Technology & Privacy Law

This article discusses why a system to combat unwanted Internet spam, or junk e-mail, should not be modeled after the Do-Not-Call registry developed to curtail telemarketing phone calls. The Do-Not-Call registry is an "opt-out" system where consumers must place their phone numbers on a list that designates them as consumers unwilling to accept telemarketing calls. In the Internet spam context, this article argues that to force Internet users to place their e-mail addresses on a similar do-not-spam list could lead to potential problems. For example, if a would-be spammer was to get a hold of that list, she or he …

After Can-Spam, How States Can Stay Relevant In The Fight Against Unwanted Messages:How A Children's Protection Registry Can Be Effective And Is Not Preempted, Under The New Federal Anti-Spam Law, 22 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 29 (2003), Matthew B. Prince

UIC John Marshall Journal of Information Technology & Privacy Law

The recipe for success to combat unsolicited and unwanted e-mail, otherwise known as spam, has not yet been formulated by the thirty-six states that have tried by enacting their own versions of anti-spam laws. Only two state prosecutions were ever successfully brought against spammers, and only one was able to enforce its law against an out-of-state spammer. Now, on the federal level, with the passing of the CAN-SPAM act, which essentially rehashes what states have attempted to do, the failure to provide any significant measure of national success against spam seems likely. However, a careful reading of the language of …