Skip to main content

Internet: Deep Packet Inspection

Volume 703: debated on Tuesday 22 July 2008

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What advice have they issued to internet service providers about (a) obtaining consent from, and (b) informing internet users and website owners about, trials of new technologies that utilise deep packet inspection or cookies or both. [HL4867]

The Government have not issued advice to the internet service providers (ISPs) on this issue. It is the responsibility of the ISPs to reach a view on whether any new service they provide is within the law.

The Government strongly support the use of technology that supports and enhances, rather than hinders and intrudes upon, the privacy of users’ data. Both the Information Commissioner and the Home Office have offered comments to internet users and ISPs on aspects of new services aimed at targeted advertising.