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• Department of Defense Implementation of the Federal Data Center Consolidation Initiative: Implications for Federal Information Technology Reform Management [April 23, 2013]

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  "The Department of Defense (DOD) is the single largest energy consumer in the nation. As the largest owner of federal data centers, with 772, the DOD has more than twice as many centers as any other agency. By consolidating some of its data centers, DOD could have a significant positive impact on energy savings for the federal government. DOD has instituted a number of policy directives, as have all federal agencies, that influence energy use in its data centers. Data centers are facilities--buildings or parts of buildings--used to store, manage, and disseminate electronic information for a computer network. They house servers, which are computers used to perform network-management functions such as data storage and processing, and communications equipment and devices to connect the servers with the network. Data centers usually draw their power from the electric grid, but they may also contain specialized power conversion and backup equipment to maintain reliable power. Power consumption varies greatly among data centers but is typically many times higher than for other kinds of buildings. Within the context of the FDCCI [Federal Data Center Consolidation Initiative], DOD's efforts are intended to address concerns about rising energy demands and costs of data centers, associated increases in carbon emissions, expanding real-estate footprints of data centers, and rising real-estate costs. According to DOD, the Department plans to reduce the number of its data centers by about 30% by 2013, and the number of servers by 25%. DOD intends to use savings generated from consolidation to pay the consolidation costs. DOD also plans to use cloud computing as part of its savings effort."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney; Andrews, Anthony; Fischer, Eric A.

  2013-04-23
• Evolving Broadband Infrastructure: Expansion, Applications, and Regulation [February 19, 2009]

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  "Over the past decade, the telecommunications sector has undergone a vast transformation fueled by rapid technological growth and subsequent evolution of the marketplace. A wide range of new services have become available, offered by a growing list of traditional as well as nontraditional providers. One of the results of this transformation is that the nation's expectations for communications services have also grown. For nearly a century, access to the public switched network through a single wireline connection, enabling voice service, was the standard of communications. Today the desire for simple voice connectivity has been replaced by the demand, on the part of consumers, business, and government, for access to a vast array of multifaceted fixed and mobile services. Consumers are also demanding greater flexibility and may choose to gain access to identical content over a variety of technologies, whether it be a computer, a television, or a mobile telephone. The trend towards sharing information, such as music, movies, or photographs, is also growing, making it necessary to ensure that network upload speeds match download capabilities. These advances require that networks transition into converged next-generation wireline and wireless broadband networks capable of meeting these demands. Much of the policy debate over the evolving telecommunications infrastructure is framed within the context of a 'national broadband policy.' The issue for policymakers is how to craft a comprehensive broadband strategy that not only addresses broadband availability and adoption problems, but also addresses the long term impacts of next-generation networks on consumer use of the Internet and a regulatory framework that must keep pace with evolving telecommunications technology."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney; Gilroy, Angele A.; Kruger, Lennard G.

  2009-02-19
• Federal Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Program: Background, Funding, and Activities [April 23, 2013]

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  "In the early 1990s, Congress recognized that several federal agencies had ongoing high-performance computing programs, but no central coordinating body existed to ensure long-term coordination and planning. To provide such a framework, Congress passed the High-Performance Computing and Communications Program Act of 1991 (P.L. [Public Law] 102-194) to enhance the effectiveness of the various programs. In conjunction with the passage of the act, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) released 'Grand Challenges: High- Performance Computing and Communications'. That document outlined a research and development (R&D) strategy for high-performance computing and a framework for a multiagency program, the High-Performance Computing and Communications (HPCC) Program. The HPCC Program has evolved over time and is now called the Networking and Information Technology Research and Development (NITRD) Program, to better reflect its expanded mission."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2013-04-23
• Federal Communications Commission: Current Structure and Its Role in the Changing Telecommunications Landscape [July 18, 2013]

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  "The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is an independent federal agency with its five members appointed by the President, subject to confirmation by the Senate. It was established by the Communications Act of 1934 (1934 Act) and is charged with regulating interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable. The mission of the FCC is to ensure that the American people have available--at reasonable cost and without discrimination--rapid, efficient, nation- and world-wide communication services, whether by radio, television, wire, satellite, or cable. Although the FCC has restructured over the past few years to better reflect the industry, it is still required to adhere to the statutory requirements of its governing legislation, the Communications Act of 1934. The 1934 Act requires the FCC to regulate the various industry sectors differently. Some policymakers have been critical of the FCC and the manner in which it regulates various sectors of the telecommunications industry--telephone, cable television, radio and television broadcasting, and some aspects of the Internet. These policymakers, including some in Congress, have long called for varying degrees and types of reform to the FCC. Most proposals fall into two categories: (1) procedural changes made within the FCC or through congressional action that would affect the agency's operations or (2) substantive policy changes requiring congressional action that would affect how the agency regulates different services and industry sectors. Nine bills have been introduced during the 112th Congress that would change the operation of the FCC."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2013-07-18
• Federal Networking and Information Technology Research Development Program: Background, Funding, and Activities [October 22, 2013]

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  "In the early 1990s, Congress recognized that several federal agencies had ongoing high-performance computing programs, but no central coordinating body existed to ensure long-term coordination and planning. To provide such a framework, Congress passed the High-Performance Computing and Communications Program Act of 1991 (P.L. 102-194) to enhance the effectiveness of the various programs. In conjunction with the passage of the act, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) released Grand Challenges: High- Performance Computing and Communications. That document outlined a research and development (R&D) strategy for high-performance computing and a framework for a multiagency program, the High-Performance Computing and Communications (HPCC) Program. The HPCC Program has evolved over time and is now called the Networking and Information Technology Research and Development (NITRD) Program, to better reflect its expanded mission. Current concerns are the role of the federal government in supporting IT R&D and the level of funding to allot to it. Proponents of federal support of information technology (IT) R&D assert that it has produced positive outcomes for the country and played a crucial role in supporting long-term research into fundamental aspects of computing. […] Another aspect of government-funded IT research is that it often leads to open standards, something that many perceive as beneficial, encouraging deployment and further investment. Industry, on the other hand, is more inclined to invest in proprietary products and will diverge from a common standard when there is a potential competitive or financial advantage to do so."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2013-10-22
• Federal Communications Commission: Current Structure and Its Role in the Changing Telecommunications Landscape [June 29, 2015]

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  "The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is an independent federal agency with its five members appointed by the President, subject to confirmation by the Senate. It was established by the Communications Act of 1934 (1934 Act) and is charged with regulating interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable. The mission of the FCC is to ensure that the American people have available--at reasonable cost and without discrimination--rapid, efficient, nation- and world-wide communication services, whether by radio, television, wire, satellite, or cable. Although the FCC has restructured over the past few years to better reflect the industry, it is still required to adhere to the statutory requirements of its governing legislation, the Communications Act of 1934. The 1934 Act requires the FCC to regulate the various industry sectors differently. Some policymakers have been critical of the FCC and the manner in which it regulates various sectors of the telecommunications industry--telephone, cable television, radio and television broadcasting, and some aspects of the Internet. These policymakers, including some in Congress, have long called for varying degrees and types of reform to the FCC. Most proposals fall into two categories: (1) procedural changes made within the FCC or through congressional action that would affect the agency's operations or (2) substantive policy changes requiring congressional action that would affect how the agency regulates different services and industry sectors."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2015-06-29
• Federal Communications Commission: Current Structure and Its Role in the Changing Telecommunications Landscape [January 9, 2015]

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  "The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is an independent federal agency with its five members appointed by the President, subject to confirmation by the Senate. It was established by the Communications Act of 1934 (1934 Act) and is charged with regulating interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable. The mission of the FCC is to ensure that the American people have available--at reasonable cost and without discrimination--rapid, efficient, nation- and world-wide communication services, whether by radio, television, wire, satellite, or cable. Although the FCC has restructured over the past few years to better reflect the industry, it is still required to adhere to the statutory requirements of its governing legislation, the Communications Act of 1934. The 1934 Act requires the FCC to regulate the various industry sectors differently. Some policy makers have been critical of the FCC and the manner in which it regulates various sectors of the telecommunications industry--telephone, cable television, radio and television broadcasting, and some aspects of the Internet. These policy makers, including some in Congress, have long called for varying degrees and types of reform to the FCC. Most proposals fall into two categories: 1) procedural changes made within the FCC or through congressional action that would affect the agency's operations or 2) substantive policy changes requiring congressional action that would affect how the agency regulates different services and industry sectors. […] There were seven bills in the 113th Congress that would have an impact on the way in which the FCC conducts its business and six hearings related to FCC operations."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2015-01-09
• EMV Chip Card Transition: Background, Status, and Issues for Congress [February 26, 2015]

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  From the Summary: "Consumer financial card fraud due to data breaches of card information is an ongoing problem in the United States. The majority of breaches are carried out against point-of-sale (POS) systems, and are facilitated by what many consider to be the weak link in the U.S. retail sales payment process: the continued use of magnetic stripe cards (also referred to as stripe-and-signature cards). These cards are what most U.S. consumers think of when referring to financial cards. In much of the rest of the world, cards that provide a much higher level of security for conducting sales transactions are used: 'EMV cards', named for the coalition of Europay, MasterCard, and Visa (the EMV Coalition or EMVCo) that developed the specifications for the system in the 1990s. EMV cards store card information on an embedded microchip and are more commonly called 'chip cards'. With these cards, instead of swiping and signing to make a payment, the cardholder inserts the card into the POS machine, then either enters a personal identification number (PIN) or signs to verify the transaction. Fraud is significantly more difficult to carry out against chip cards, but financial institutions in the United States have until recently issued stripe cards almost exclusively."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2015-02-26
• Federal Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Program: Background, Funding, and Activities [August 3, 2015]

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  "In the early 1990s, Congress recognized that several federal agencies had ongoing highperformance computing programs, but no central coordinating body existed to ensure long-term coordination and planning. To provide such a framework, Congress passed the High-Performance Computing and Communications Program Act of 1991 (P.L. 102-194) to enhance the effectiveness of the various programs. In conjunction with the passage of the act, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) released 'Grand Challenges: High- Performance Computing and Communications'. […] Current concerns are the role of the federal government in supporting information technology (IT) R&D [research and development] and the level of funding to allot to it. Proponents of federal support of IT R&D assert that it has produced positive outcomes for the country and played a crucial role in supporting long-term research into fundamental aspects of computing. Such fundamentals provide broad practical benefits but generally take years to realize. Additionally, the unanticipated results of research are often as important as the anticipated results. Another aspect of government-funded IT research is that it often leads to open standards, something that many perceive as beneficial, encouraging deployment and further investment. Industry, on the other hand, is more inclined to invest in proprietary products and will diverge from a common standard when there is a potential competitive or financial advantage to do so. Proponents of government support believe that the outcomes achieved through the various funding programs create a synergistic environment in which both fundamental and application-driven research are conducted, benefitting government, industry, academia, and the public. Supporters also believe that such outcomes justify government's role in funding IT R&D as well as the growing budget for the NITRD [Networking and Information Technology Research and Development] Program."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2015-08-03
• EMV Chip Card Transition: Background, Status, and Issues for Congress [September 8, 2015]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  From the Summary: "Consumer financial card fraud due to data breaches of card information is an ongoing problem in the United States. The majority of breaches are carried out against point-of-sale (POS) systems, and are facilitated by what many consider to be the weak link in the U.S. retail sales payment process: the continued use of magnetic stripe cards (also referred to as stripe-and-signature cards). These cards are what most U.S. consumers think of when referring to financial cards. In much of the rest of the world, cards that provide a much higher level of security for conducting sales transactions are used: 'EMV cards', named for the coalition of Europay, MasterCard, and Visa (the EMV Coalition or EMVCo) that developed the specifications for the system in the 1990s. EMV cards store card information on an embedded microchip and are more commonly called 'chip cards'. With these cards, instead of swiping and signing to make a payment, the cardholder inserts the card into the POS machine, then either enters a personal identification number (PIN) or signs to verify the transaction. Fraud is significantly more difficult to carry out against chip cards, but financial institutions in the United States have until recently issued stripe cards almost exclusively. In an effort to decrease fraud, MasterCard and Visa set a deadline of October 1, 2015, for U.S. financial card issuers (e.g., banks, credit unions) to replace magnetic stripe cards with EMV cards and for merchants to begin accepting them. Other card brands followed suit and have also imposed the October 1, 2015, deadline. The transition will also make U.S.-issued cards compatible with POS systems and automated teller machines in much of the rest of the world."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2015-09-08
• EMV Chip Card Transition: Background, Status, and Issues for Congress [November 27, 2015]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  From the Summary: "Consumer financial card fraud due to data breaches of card information is an ongoing problem in the United States. The majority of breaches are carried out against point-of-sale (POS) systems, and are facilitated by what many consider to be the weak link in the U.S. retail sales payment process: the continued use of magnetic stripe cards (also referred to as stripe-and-signature cards). These cards are what most U.S. consumers think of when referring to financial cards. In much of the rest of the world, cards that provide a much higher level of security for conducting sales transactions are used: 'EMV cards', named for the coalition of card brands Europay, MasterCard, and Visa (the EMV Coalition or EMVCo) that developed the specifications for the system in the 1990s. EMV cards store card information on an embedded microchip and are more commonly called 'chip cards'. With these cards, instead of swiping and signing to make a payment, the cardholder inserts the card into the POS machine, then either enters a personal identification number (PIN) or signs to verify the transaction. [...] The 114th Congress may examine the transition and its effectiveness to determine whether any legislative action is needed, especially if major breaches continue to occur despite the transition."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2015-11-27
• Federal Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Program: Background, Funding, and Activities [February 16, 2016]

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  "In the early 1990s, Congress recognized that several federal agencies had ongoing high-performance computing programs, but no central coordinating body existed to ensure long-term coordination and planning. To provide such a framework, Congress passed the High-Performance Computing and Communications Program Act of 1991 (P.L. 102-194) to enhance the effectiveness of the various programs. In conjunction with the passage of the act, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) released 'Grand Challenges: High-Performance Computing and Communications'. That document outlined a research and development (R&D) strategy for high-performance computing and a framework for a multi-agency program, the High-Performance Computing and Communications (HPCC) Program. The HPCC Program has evolved over time and is now called the Networking and Information Technology Research and Development (NITRD) Program to better reflect its expanded mission."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2016-02-16
• Federal Communications Commission: Current Structure and Its Role in the Changing Telecommunications Landscape [April 15, 2016]

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  "The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is an independent federal agency with its five members appointed by the President, subject to confirmation by the Senate. It was established by the Communications Act of 1934 (1934 Act) and is charged with regulating interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable. The mission of the FCC is to ensure that the American people have available-at reasonable cost and without discrimination-rapid, efficient, nation- and world-wide communication services, whether by radio, television, wire, satellite, or cable."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2016-04-15
• EMV Chip Card Transition: Background, Status, and Issues for Congress [May 17, 2016]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  From the Summary: "Consumer financial card fraud due to data breaches of card information is an ongoing problem in the United States. The majority of breaches are carried out against point-of-sale (POS) systems, and are facilitated by what many consider to be the weak link in the U.S. retail sales payment process: the continued use of magnetic stripe cards (also referred to as stripe-and-signature cards). These cards are still what most U.S. consumers think of when referring to financial cards. In much of the rest of the world, cards that provide a much higher level of security for conducting sales transactions have been used for many years: 'EMV cards', named for the coalition of card brands Europay, MasterCard, and Visa (the EMV Coalition or EMVCo) that developed the specifications for the system in the 1990s. EMV cards store card information on an embedded microchip and are more commonly called 'chip cards'. With these cards, instead of swiping and signing to make a payment, the cardholder inserts the card into the POS machine, then either enters a personal identification number (PIN) or signs to verify the transaction." Finally, the report concludes by discussing the various entities liable for fraudulent transactions.

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2016-05-17
• Federal Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Program: Background, Funding, and Activities [June 10, 2013]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "In the early 1990s, Congress recognized that several federal agencies had ongoing high-performance computing programs, but no central coordinating body existed to ensure long-term coordination and planning. To provide such a framework, Congress passed the High-Performance Computing and Communications Program Act of 1991 (P.L. [Public Law] 102-194) to enhance the effectiveness of the various programs. In conjunction with the passage of the act, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) released 'Grand Challenges: High- Performance Computing and Communications'. That document outlined a research and development (R&D) strategy for high-performance computing and a framework for a multiagency program, the High-Performance Computing and Communications (HPCC) Program. The HPCC Program has evolved over time and is now called the Networking and Information Technology Research and Development (NITRD) Program, to better reflect its expanded mission."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2013-06-10
• Federal Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Program: Background, Funding, and Activities [January 9, 2015]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "In the early 1990s, Congress recognized that several federal agencies had ongoing high-performance computing programs, but no central coordinating body existed to ensure long-term coordination and planning. To provide such a framework, Congress passed the High-Performance Computing and Communications Program Act of 1991 (P.L. 102-194) to enhance the effectiveness of the various programs. In conjunction with the passage of the act, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) released 'Grand Challenges: High- Performance Computing and Communications'. That document outlined a research and development (R&D) strategy for high-performance computing and a framework for a multiagency program, the High-Performance Computing and Communications (HPCC) Program. The HPCC Program has evolved over time and is now called the Networking and Information Technology Research and Development (NITRD) Program, to better reflect its expanded mission. Current concerns are the role of the federal government in supporting IT R&D and the level of funding to allot to it. […] Proponents of government support believe that the outcomes achieved through the various funding programs create a synergistic environment in which both fundamental and application-driven research are conducted, benefitting government, industry, academia, and the public. Supporters also believe that such outcomes justify government's role in funding IT R&D, as well as the growing budget for the NITRD Program. Critics assert that the government, through its funding mechanisms, may be picking 'winners and losers' in technological development, a role more properly residing with the private sector."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2015-01-09
• Federal Communications Commission: Current Structure and Its Role in the Changing Telecommunications Landscape [March 16, 2015]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is an independent federal agency with its five members appointed by the President, subject to confirmation by the Senate. It was established by the Communications Act of 1934 (1934 Act) and is charged with regulating interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable. The mission of the FCC is to ensure that the American people have available--at reasonable cost and without discrimination--rapid, efficient, nation- and world-wide communication services, whether by radio, television, wire, satellite, or cable. Although the FCC has restructured over the past few years to better reflect the industry, it is still required to adhere to the statutory requirements of its governing legislation, the Communications Act of 1934. The 1934 Act requires the FCC to regulate the various industry sectors differently. Some policymakers have been critical of the FCC and the manner in which it regulates various sectors of the telecommunications industry--telephone, cable television, radio and television broadcasting, and some aspects of the Internet. These policymakers, including some in Congress, have long called for varying degrees and types of reform to the FCC. Most proposals fall into two categories: (1) procedural changes made within the FCC or through congressional action that would affect the agency's operations or (2) substantive policy changes requiring congressional action that would affect how the agency regulates different services and industry sectors. […] There were seven bills in the 113th Congress that would have an impact on the way in which the FCC conducts its business and six hearings related to FCC operations."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2015-03-16
• Federal Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Program: Background, Funding, and Activities [April 10, 2015]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "In the early 1990s, Congress recognized that several federal agencies had ongoing high performance computing programs, but no central coordinating body existed to ensure long-term coordination and planning. To provide such a framework, Congress passed the High-Performance Computing and Communications Program Act of 1991 (P.L. 102-194) to enhance the effectiveness of the various programs. In conjunction with the passage of the act, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) released Grand Challenges: High- Performance Computing and Communications. That document outlined a research and development (R&D) strategy for high-performance computing and a framework for a multiagency program, the High-Performance Computing and Communications (HPCC) Program. The HPCC Program has evolved over time and is now called the Networking and Information Technology Research and Development (NITRD) Program to better reflect its expanded mission."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2015-04-10
• Federal Communications Commission: Current Structure and Its Role in the Changing Telecommunications Landscape [November 18, 2013]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is an independent federal agency with its five members appointed by the President, subject to confirmation by the Senate. It was established by the Communications Act of 1934 (1934 Act) and is charged with regulating interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable. The mission of the FCC is to ensure that the American people have available--at reasonable cost and without discrimination--rapid, efficient, nation- and world-wide communication services, whether by radio, television, wire, satellite, or cable. Although the FCC has restructured over the past few years to better reflect the industry, it is still required to adhere to the statutory requirements of its governing legislation, the Communications Act of 1934. The 1934 Act requires the FCC to regulate the various industry sectors differently. Some policymakers have been critical of the FCC and the manner in which it regulates various sectors of the telecommunications industry--telephone, cable television, radio and television broadcasting, and some aspects of the Internet. These policymakers, including some in Congress, have long called for varying degrees and types of reform to the FCC. Most proposals fall into two categories: (1) procedural changes made within the FCC or through congressional action that would affect the agency's operations or (2) substantive policy changes requiring congressional action that would affect how the agency regulates different services and industry sectors. Nine bills have been introduced during the 112th Congress that would change the operation of the FCC. For FY2014, the FCC has requested a budget of $359,299,000. The FCC's budget is derived from regulatory fees collected by the agency rather than through a direct appropriation. The fees, often referred to as 'Section (9) fees,' are collected from license holders and certain other entities (e.g., cable television systems) and deposited into an FCC account. The law gives the FCC authority to review the regulatory fees and to adjust the fees to reflect changes in its appropriation from year to year. It may also add, delete, or reclassify services under certain circumstances."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2013-11-18
• Spyware: Background and Policy Issues for Congress [January 12, 2011]

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  "The term 'spyware' generally refers to any software that is downloaded onto a computer without the owner's or user's knowledge. Spyware may collect information about a computer user's activities and transmit that information to someone else. It may change computer settings, or cause 'pop-up' advertisements to appear (in that context, it is called 'adware'). Spyware may redirect a web browser to a site different from what the user intended to visit, or change the user's home page. A type of spyware called 'keylogging' software records individual keystrokes, even if the author modifies or deletes what was written, or if the characters do not appear on the monitor. Thus, passwords, credit card numbers, and other personally identifiable information may be captured and relayed to unauthorized recipients. Some of these software programs have legitimate applications the computer user wants. They obtain the moniker 'spyware' when they are installed surreptitiously, or perform additional functions of which the user is unaware. Users typically do not realize that spyware is on their computer. They may have unknowingly downloaded it from the Internet by clicking within a website, or it might have been included in an attachment to an electronic mail message (e-mail) or embedded in other software. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has produced a consumer alert on spyware. The alert provides a list of warning signs that indicate that a computer might be infected with spyware and advice on what to do if it is. Additionally, the FTC has consumer information on spyware that includes a link to file a complaint with the commission through its 'OnGuard Online' website."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2011-01-12
• Spyware: Background and Policy Issues for Congress [July 20, 2010]

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  "The term 'spyware' generally refers to any software that is downloaded onto a computer without the owner's or user's knowledge. Spyware may collect information about a computer user's activities and transmit that information to someone else. It may change computer settings, or cause 'pop-up' advertisements to appear (in that context, it is called 'adware'). Spyware may redirect a Web browser to a site different from what the user intended to visit, or change the user's home page. A type of spyware called 'keylogging' software records individual keystrokes, even if the author modifies or deletes what was written, or if the characters do not appear on the monitor. Thus, passwords, credit card numbers, and other personally identifiable information may be captured and relayed to unauthorized recipients. Some of these software programs have legitimate applications the computer user wants. They obtain the moniker 'spyware' when they are installed surreptitiously, or perform additional functions of which the user is unaware. Users typically do not realize that spyware is on their computer. They may have unknowingly downloaded it from the Internet by clicking within a website, or it might have been included in an attachment to an electronic mail message (e-mail) or embedded in other software. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued a consumer alert on spyware in October 2004. It provided a list of warning signs that might indicate that a computer is infected with spyware, and advice on what to do if it is. Additionally, the FTC has consumer information on spyware that includes a link to file a complaint with the commission through its 'OnGuard Online' website."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2010-07-20
• Spyware: Background and Policy Issues for Congress [September 8, 2010]

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  "The term 'spyware' generally refers to any software that is downloaded onto a computer without the owner's or user's knowledge. Spyware may collect information about a computer user's activities and transmit that information to someone else. It may change computer settings, or cause 'pop-up' advertisements to appear (in that context, it is called 'adware'). Spyware may redirect a Web browser to a site different from what the user intended to visit, or change the user's home page. A type of spyware called 'keylogging' software records individual keystrokes, even if the author modifies or deletes what was written, or if the characters do not appear on the monitor. Thus, passwords, credit card numbers, and other personally identifiable information may be captured and relayed to unauthorized recipients. Some of these software programs have legitimate applications the computer user wants. They obtain the moniker 'spyware' when they are installed surreptitiously, or perform additional functions of which the user is unaware. Users typically do not realize that spyware is on their computer. They may have unknowingly downloaded it from the Internet by clicking within a website, or it might have been included in an attachment to an electronic mail message (e-mail) or embedded in other software."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2010-09-08
• Spyware: Background and Policy Issues for Congress [December 9, 2009]

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  "The term 'spyware' generally refers to any software that is downloaded onto a computer without the owner's or user's knowledge. Spyware may collect information about a computer user's activities and transmit that information to someone else. It may change computer settings, or cause 'pop-up' advertisements to appear (in that context, it is called 'adware'). Spyware may redirect a Web browser to a site different from what the user intended to visit, or change the user's home page. A type of spyware called 'keylogging' software records individual keystrokes, even if the author modifies or deletes what was written, or if the characters do not appear on the monitor. Thus, passwords, credit card numbers, and other personally identifiable information may be captured and relayed to unauthorized recipients. Some of these software programs have legitimate applications the computer user wants. They obtain the moniker 'spyware' when they are installed surreptitiously, or perform additional functions of which the user is unaware. Users typically do not realize that spyware is on their computer. They may have unknowingly downloaded it from the Internet by clicking within a website, or it might have been included in an attachment to an electronic mail message (e-mail) or embedded in other software. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued a consumer alert on spyware in October 2004. It provided a list of warning signs that might indicate that a computer is infected with spyware, and advice on what to do if it is."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2009-12-09
• Spyware: Background and Policy Issues for Congress [Updated July 17, 2006]

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  "The term 'spyware' is not well defined. Generally it is used to refer to any software that is downloaded onto a person's computer without their knowledge. Spyware may collect information about a computer user's activities and transmit that information to someone else. It may change computer settings, or cause 'pop-up' advertisements to appear (in that context, it is called 'adware'). Spyware may redirect a Web browser to a site different from what the user intended to visit, or change the user's home page. A type of spyware called 'keylogging' software records individual keystrokes, even if the author modifies or deletes what was written, or if the characters do not appear on the monitor. Thus, passwords, credit card numbers, and other personally identifiable information may be captured and relayed to unauthorized recipients. Some of these software programs have legitimate applications the computer user wants. They obtain the moniker 'spyware' when they are installed surreptitiously, or perform additional functions of which the user is unaware. Users typically do not realize that spyware is on their computer. They may have unknowingly downloaded it from the Internet by clicking within a website, or it might have been included in an attachment to an electronic mail message (e-mail) or embedded in other software."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2006-07-17
• Spyware: Background and Policy Issues for Congress [Updated September 26, 2007]

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  "The term 'spyware' generally refers to any software that is downloaded onto a computer without the owner's or user's knowledge. Spyware may collect information about a computer user's activities and transmit that information to someone else. It may change computer settings, or cause 'pop-up' advertisements to appear (in that context, it is called 'adware'). Spyware may redirect a Web browser to a site different from what the user intended to visit, or change the user's home page. A type of spyware called 'keylogging' software records individual keystrokes, even if the author modifies or deletes what was written, or if the characters do not appear on the monitor. Thus, passwords, credit card numbers, and other personally identifiable information may be captured and relayed to unauthorized recipients. Some of these software programs have legitimate applications the computer user wants. They obtain the moniker 'spyware' when they are installed surreptitiously, or perform additional functions of which the user is unaware. Users typically do not realize that spyware is on their computer. They may have unknowingly downloaded it from the Internet by clicking within a website, or it might have been included in an attachment to an electronic mail message (e-mail) or embedded in other software. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued a consumer alert on spyware in October 2004. It provided a list of warning signs that might indicate that a computer is infected with spyware, and advice on what to do if it is."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2007-09-26
• Spyware: Background and Policy Issues for Congress [Updated March 28, 2008]

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  "The term 'spyware' generally refers to any software that is downloaded onto a computer without the owner's or user's knowledge. Spyware may collect information about a computer user's activities and transmit that information to someone else. It may change computer settings, or cause 'pop-up' advertisements to appear (in that context, it is called 'adware'). Spyware may redirect a Web browser to a site different from what the user intended to visit, or change the user's home page. A type of spyware called 'keylogging' software records individual keystrokes, even if the author modifies or deletes what was written, or if the characters do not appear on the monitor. Thus, passwords, credit card numbers, and other personally identifiable information may be captured and relayed to unauthorized recipients. Some of these software programs have legitimate applications the computer user wants. They obtain the moniker 'spyware' when they are installed surreptitiously, or perform additional functions of which the user is unaware. Users typically do not realize that spyware is on their computer. They may have unknowingly downloaded it from the Internet by clicking within a website, or it might have been included in an attachment to an electronic mail message (e-mail) or embedded in other software. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued a consumer alert on spyware in October 2004. It provided a list of warning signs that might indicate that a computer is infected with spyware, and advice on what to do if it is."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2008-03-28
• The Federal Net Neutrality Debate: Access to Broadband Networks [Updated February 24, 2021]

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  From the Overview: "As congressional policymakers continue to debate telecommunications reform, a major discussion point has continued to revolve around what approach should be taken to ensure unfettered access to the internet. Policies to place restrictions on the owners of the networks that compose and provide access to the internet, to ensure equal access and nondiscriminatory treatment, is referred to as 'net neutrality.' There is no single accepted definition of net neutrality. However, most agree that any such definition should include the general principles that owners of the networks that compose and provide access to the internet should not control how consumers lawfully use that network, and they should not be able to discriminate against content provider access to that network. [...] A major focus of the debate is whether the regulatory framework created in the 2015 Order is the appropriate approach to ensure access to the internet for content, services, and applications providers, as well as consumers, or whether the less regulatory approach contained in the 2017 Order is more suitable. The 117th Congress may take action to amend existing law to provide guidance and more stability to FCC [Federal Communications Commission] authority over broadband access."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2021-02-24
• Protecting Consumers and Businesses from Fraudulent Robocalls [Updated December 21, 2018]

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  "The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 (TCPA) regulates robocalls. A robocall, also known as 'voice broadcasting,' is any telephone call that delivers a prerecorded message using an automatic (computerized) telephone dialing system, more commonly referred to as an automatic dialer or 'autodialer.' Robocalls are popular with many industry groups, such as real estate, telemarketing, and direct sales companies. The majority of companies who use robocalling are legitimate businesses, but some are not. Those illegitimate businesses may not just be annoying consumers--they may also be trying to defraud them."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2018-12-21
• Protecting Consumers and Businesses from Fraudulent Robocalls [October 4, 2018]

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  "The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 (TCPA) regulates robocalls. A robocall, also known as 'voice broadcasting,' is any telephone call that delivers a prerecorded message using anautomatic (computerized) telephone dialing system, more commonly referred to as an automatic dialer or 'autodialer.' When the call is answered, the autodialer either connects the call to a live person or plays a prerecorded message. Both are considered robocalls. Some robocalls use personalized audio messages to simulate an actual personal phone call. As discussed in more detail below (in 'Classification of Telemarketing Calls'), the TCPA prohibits robocalls to consumers' traditional landline numbers, consumers' Voice-over-Internet-Protocol (VoIP) landline numbers, and all mobile numbers."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2018-10-04
• Protecting Consumers and Businesses from Fraudulent Robocalls [August 1, 2018]

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  "The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 (TCPA) regulates robocalls. A robocall, also known as 'voice broadcasting,' is any telephone call that delivers a prerecorded message using an automatic (computerized) telephone dialing system, more commonly referred to as an automatic dialer or 'autodialer.' Robocalls are popular with many industry groups, such as real estate, telemarketing, and direct sales companies. The majority of companies who use robocalling are legitimate businesses, but some are not. Those illegitimate businesses may not just be annoying consumers--they may also be trying to defraud them."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Figliola, Patricia Moloney

  2018-08-01