SAN DIEGO, October 9, 2001 - The FTC's recent decision to stop pursuing consumer privacy protection laws means consumers must continue to adopt available software and services in order to adequately protect themselves from online risks, said Internet privacy expert Lance Cottrell. Cottrell, who is president of leading Internet privacy and security firm Anonymizer, Inc., also noted that technology companies must recognize this challenge to develop powerful, user-friendly solutions to counter the growing threats to online safety.

The FTC decision, which was announced on Thursday Oct. 4 by new agency Charmin Timothy Muris, is a reversal from the position taken last year by the FTC under the Clinton administration. Consumer advocates have criticized the decision as favoring businesses over consumers, allowing them to share sensitive consumer information too freely.

Cottrell agreed that the decision was an unfortunate sign for consumers, but pointed out that the legislation would likely have had little effect even if passed, especially where Internet privacy is concerned.

"By the time these bills make it through committee, they tend to be watered down and essentially toothless. In addition, enforcement is extremely difficult, and no matter how effective the law is, it can't protect consumers from non-U.S.-based web sites and businesses. The only way consumers can gain real safety is to explore and adopt the privacy products and services now on the market."

Anonymizer, Inc. offers several such products, including Anonymous Web Surfing, which conceals a user's identity and personal information online, and Anonymous Dialup Internet Access. In addition the company recently released the Anonymizer Privacy Button, a plug-in for Internet Explorer that lets users "cloak" their surfing with a single click. All are available at the Anonymizer.com web site.

According to Cottrell, the FTC decision represents a challenge and opportunity for security and privacy technology companies. "Consumers have grown more wary about how businesses handle their personal information," he said. "There is an unprecedented level of concern among consumers right now, and with it a high degree of interest in the tools that can be employed to safeguard information."

Anonymizer has several new solutions under development, including a Privacy Toolbar for Internet Explorer, and an Online Privacy Store where consumers can learn how to protect themselves, as well as purchase top privacy and security software and services.

For more information, please contact Charlie Bornheimer at (619) 725-3180, ext. 307, professional@anonymizer.com.