Top mobile carriers including Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile share data privacy practices

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AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon data privacy overview:

• Who: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) asked the top U.S. mobile carriers to share details about their geolocation data privacy practices.
• Why: The agency says it is taking steps to ensure that customers’ sensitive data is protected.
• Where: The FCC rules apply to mobile carriers within the United States.

The top mobile carriers in the country have shared details about their data privacy practices with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Law360 reports.

In July, the FCC asked the major mobile carriers to provide information about how they protect sensitive consumer information such as geolocation data by Aug. 3.

In response, AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon submitted information about their data privacy practices, including how they collect, utilize and share geolocation data.

AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile data privacy protections comply with FCC rules, mobile carriers say

The mobile carriers claim that their data protection practices comply with the FCC’s requirements.

The AT&T data privacy comments state that it collects geolocation data to provide better service to its customers. The mobile carrier insists that it “applies robust protections” to customer data, including geolocation data.

T-Mobile says it uses a “holistic approach” when protecting T-Mobile data privacy. The mobile carrier reportedly uses several safeguards to protect data, including requiring staff training and conducting impact assessments, according to its FCC submission.

The Verizon data privacy letter reassures the FCC that it limits its collection of geolocation data such that it only collects data to improve its services. Verizon insists that it is transparent with customers about how it uses their data.

FCC to investigate Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T data privacy practices

FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel says she has asked the agency’s Enforcement Bureau to investigate whether the mobile carriers are complying with FCC regulations requiring them to disclose how they use geolocation data.

“This information and geolocation data is really sensitive,” Rosenworcel says in a statement. “That’s why the FCC is taking steps to ensure this data is protected.”

Customers with privacy complaints or concerns about how mobile carriers use their data may file complaints directly with the FCC, according to the agency.

Earlier this summer, the FCC adopted new guidance for wireless carriers to help ensure customers could access services during climate disasters such as hurricanes and wildfires.

Additionally, T-Mobile and Verizon have recently been hit with class action lawsuits over issues related to billing, service and accessibility.

Are you concerned about your AT&T, Verizon or T-Mobile data privacy? Tell us about it in the comments!

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