Industry Self Regulation of Data Privacy and Security

22 Pages Posted: 21 Jun 2015

See all articles by Siona Robin Listokin

Siona Robin Listokin

George Mason University - School of Policy, Government, and International Affairs; George Mason University - Schar School of Policy and Government

Date Written: June 10, 2015

Abstract

Industry self-regulation of consumer data privacy and security has been proposed as a flexible alternative and compliment to traditional government regulation. This study analyzes whether different types of existing industry-led standards improve online privacy and security. The paper examines which types of firms join voluntary standards and whether there is a difference in outcomes between trade association memberships (like the Digital Advertising Alliance) and certification programs (like TRUSTe). Results suggest that more trafficked websites are more likely to adopt standards, and that trade association membership does not have an effect on privacy and security performance. There is some evidence that paid certification can hurt subsequent privacy and security. This study also compares website privacy measures and highlights the need for a valid privacy metric.

Keywords: Data Privacy, Self Regulation, Online Advertising

JEL Classification: G38, L51

Suggested Citation

Listokin, Siona Robin and Listokin, Siona Robin, Industry Self Regulation of Data Privacy and Security (June 10, 2015). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2620832 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.2620832

Siona Robin Listokin (Contact Author)

George Mason University - Schar School of Policy and Government ( email )

Founders Hall, Fifth Floor
3351 Fairfax Drive, MS 3B1
Arlington, VA 22201
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George Mason University - School of Policy, Government, and International Affairs ( email )

Founders Hall
3351 Fairfax Dr.
Arlington, VA 22201
United States

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