EU Adopts New Privacy Policy For Internet

Brussels (NBp) - The EU today formally adopted a new privacy policy that Internet users and website publishers must adhere to if they reside within the Union.

"We want to be certain that Internet users in the EU are safe from predatory companies, without stifling growth of those companies," said EU spokesperson Francois Jeanere.

Provisions of the new policy are:

1. Internet users must identify themselves to all websites they visit, even if such identification is not requested.
2. Websites must not store this information in electronic form. They must print out the names of people who request information from their sites and save the printouts for 5 years.
3. Websites may only send email to their visitors if:
   • The user requests it
   • The website will make good money off of it
4. Websites must cross check the identification of the reader with an age database to determine if the reader is under 18. If the reader is not yet 18, then the website must refuse to provide information to the reader, even if the information is geared for children.

"These policies, which are to be carried out immediately, will certainly make the Internet a better and safer place," continued Jeanere.

Jeanere concluded the announcement by saying "Live long and prosper" before disappearing in a flash of light.