The Monopoly Report

Episode 43: Behind the curtain at the FTC

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In this episode, Alan is joined by Shoshana Woodinsky, veteran journalist in the ads space turned tech expert for the Federal Trade Commission. Shoshana offers an unfiltered view of how things sometimes function at the Commission - and shares some insights on how recent FTC policies impact the ads space.

Takeaways

  • The U.S. lacks a national privacy law, relying on state laws.
  • The FTC has historically set privacy standards.
  • Lina Khan's leadership marked a shift in consumer protection.
  • The Office of Technology was created to address tech issues.
  • Bureaucracy can slow down regulatory processes significantly.
  • Investigations can sometimes feel like fishing expeditions.
  • The FTC's approach to bias in advertising raises questions.
  • Legal theories in advertising can be complex and vague.
  • Collaboration among commissioners is crucial for effective regulation.
  • Upholding the truth is essential in regulatory work.

    • Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Privacy and Regulation

    03:08 The Role of the FTC in Privacy Standards

    05:43 Lina Khan's Impact on Consumer Protection

    08:53 Navigating Between Technology and Economics

    11:33 The Challenges of Bureaucracy in Regulation

    14:45 Investigating Bias in Advertising

    17:30 The Complexity of Legal Theories

    20:16 The Nature of FTC Investigations

    23:16 The Balance of Ideology in the FTC

    26:32 The Future of Privacy Regulation

    29:29 Conclusion and Reflections on FTC Dynamics

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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    The Monopoly ReportBy Alan Chapell