EPIC Files Complaints Regarding JetBlue
The Electronic Privacy Informatin Center filed a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission about JetBlue and Acxiom in response to the airline's recent admission of divulging passenger information to the government contractor, in clear violation of its own privacy policy. EPIC alleged that JetBlue and Acxiom violated federal consumer law when they transferred information on passengers. EPIC also filed expedited Freedom of Information Act requests with several federal agencies to discover more about the uses of the JetBlue data.
In a separate action, a group of JetBlue passengers, incensed that the low-fare airline gave away their personal information, filed a class action lawsuit in Utah on behalf of 5 million passengers. The lawsuit, filed in 3rd District Court by five passengers, alleges the airline violated its own confidentiality policies in turning the information over, as well as claims breach of contract, invasion of privacy and violations of Utah consumer laws against deceptive business practices.
JetBlue Target of Inquiries by 2 Agencies
The New York Times, September 23, 2003
JetBlue draws fire for sharing data
The Salt Lake Tribune, September 23, 2003
EPIC homepage (includes information on FTC complaint and FOIA suits)
