FCC Proposed New Rules To Safeguard The Data Of Domestic Violence Victims

According to NBC News, the Federal Communications Commission's new proposed rules, which were published earlier this month, may adopt the Safe Connections Act. Within two days of receiving a request, mobile service providers must cut a domestic violence victim's phone line from the plan they share with an abuser, according to the new regulations. Furthermore, additional regulations compel service providers to exclude call and text history for particular hotlines from records that an abuser could obtain. Also, it will offer families in need up to six months' worth of cash support for their phone and internet costs. For those unaware, tech abuse includes snooping into someone's phone, demanding their passwords, or using any form of technology to stalk them and send them threatening messages. It's challenging to flee tech abuse because of its nature. In addition, many of the items on the survivors' to-do list when they are leaving an abuser depend on their ability to use their phones, laptops, and social media. Their lifeline is their mobile phone. Additionally, FVV proposals can assist survivors in regaining control over their online lives by taking care of some of the administrative tasks they must deal with when they leave abusers. [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Image credit: Tech Times[/caption]

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Domestic abuse survivors and advocates for prevention are also invited to provide feedback on the proposal by the FCC. With that, the public can comment on the proposals using the electronic comment filing system or the Federal Register. Domestic violence may be intensified by means of monitoring, surveillance, and the use of technology to control, intimidate, and threaten the victim. Domestic abuse victims can take precautions to safeguard themselves online, including changing passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and utilizing a secure messaging service. Technology can be used to commit violent acts and manage instances of domestic violence. This involves utilizing technology to watch over and follow a partner's movements, harassing them on social media, spying on their emails, messages, and other kinds of contact, and tracking their location via GPS. Personal data can also be accessed through technology, including bank accounts and medical records. However, technology can also help survivors of domestic violence by allowing them to access resources, keep in touch with friends, and record abuse. Also, they can utilize technology to develop safety strategies, get legal advice, and get assistance. [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] Image credit: Benefit Blog - Benefit Cosmetics[/caption] On another note, mobile service providers will be required by the new regulations to educate customers about their right to be free from technology abuse and to give victims information on how to get help. Additionally, providers will need to develop procedures for users to report technological abuse and give victims access to safety planning tools. In accordance with the regulations, service providers must also terminate abusive users and delete any content that threatens or harasses others. Finally, the regulations would oblige providers to give victims access to a specialized customer service agent who will guide them through the procedure of receiving assistance.