DMA Representatives to Discuss 'Future of Privacy' at US Chamber of Commerce Conference

December 5, 2006 — Advances in technology have revolutionized the collection, storage, and transfer of data. The ability to employ data in various ways is essential to growth and innovation in the information economy. At the same time, concerns over the safety and use of information are growing.

As part of its commitment to addressing these critical issues, the Direct Marketing Association (DMA) is pleased to co-sponsor “Minding Your Business: The Future of Privacy.” This one-day conference, which will be held today in Washington, DC, is organized and hosted by the US Chamber of Commerce and the National Chamber Foundation, along with event partners Experian and Microsoft. In addition to DMA, other event sponsors include KPMG, LexisNexis and Steptoe & Johnson, LLP.

“When it comes to purchases and business transactions, American consumers enjoy a level of convenience unknown in most parts of the world,” said Jerry Cerasale, DMA’s senior vice president for government affairs. “These conveniences are made possible by the responsible exchange of data. Therefore, maintaining a safe and free flow of information is critical to the ongoing strength of America’s economy and the continued success of many businesses – from the mom-and-pop business around the corner to our country’s largest corporations.”

The conference was convened to explore existing privacy standards, the relationship between security and privacy, and what issues are on the horizon. Federal Trade Commission Chairman Deborah Platt Majoras will provide a keynote luncheon address.

Cerasale will moderate a morning discussion on “The Benefits of Information: Protecting Business and Consumers.” Participants will include: Tony Hadley, vice president, government affairs, Experian; Ira Rubenstein, associate general counsel, Microsoft Corporation; and Dan Moore, vice president, public affairs, Guidestar.org.

The event will take place on Tuesday, December 5, 2006, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Hall of Flags at the US Chamber of Commerce building, 1615 H Street NW, Washington, DC. Additional information is available at www.uschamber.com.

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