The revision of this Directive has brought major improvements by extending the scope of Article 5 to cover not just the content of the communication but also the related traffic data. The Working Party welcomes the fact that new issues have been taken into account in the draft Directive but has however made some proposals on specific points that could still be better addressed3. Further than the two opinions already issued concerning this review, the Working Party wishes to be involved and contribute to the ongoing process. Growing amount of services available to the users, bringing enlarged complexity with. It is difficult for the user to have an overview of the services available and the differences between them.
Companies try to attract users and distinguish themselves by offering personalised services.
This personalisation is dependent upon utilisation of personal data of the users, which companies obtain through different sources. Anonymity becomes more and more difficult on the Internet. The combination of these new capabilities brings with it new risks for the privacy of the Internet user, especially when data are concentrated in the hands of one or a limited number of controllers. Consumers associations are also increasingly getting involved and interested in the privacy aspects of consumers activities. Professional associations can also have a positive influence, informing new actors about their legal obligations.