The Data Diva E224 - Mike Swift and Debbie Reynolds

"The Data Diva" Talks Privacy Podcast

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Debbie Reynolds, "The Data Diva" talks to Mike Swift, the Chief Global Digital Risk Correspondent at MLex. Mike's extensive background in journalism and his focus on the intersection of technology and the law gives him a compelling perspective on the conversation.

Mike discusses his career journey, from reporting on major tech companies like Google and Facebook at The San Jose Mercury News to covering digital risk, privacy, and antitrust issues at MLex. The conversation highlights the increasing overlap between privacy and antitrust. Mike offers insights into significant cases involving Google's ad tech practices and the ongoing debate between Apple and Google over app store control.

The episode's central theme is the evolving view of personal data as a consumer protection issue and a national security concern. Mike reflects on recent legislative efforts to restrict the flow of Americans' data to foreign adversaries, marking a notable shift in privacy discourse at the federal level.

Debbie and Mike explore the growing influence of data brokers, who often operate without direct relationships with consumers while amassing and selling vast amounts of personal data. They discuss the 23andMe breach and raise questions about the adequacy of credit monitoring as a remedy for biometric data leaks.

Artificial intelligence also takes center stage as the two unpack the debate over regulation and innovation. Mike shares insights on California's legislative efforts to regulate powerful AI systems, emphasizing the need to balance technological advancement with consumer protection and privacy safeguards.

The discussion highlights the U.S.'s lack of comprehensive federal privacy legislation, exposing consumers to risks while creating inconsistent protections across states. Mike underscores the need for stronger regulatory guardrails and advocates for recognizing privacy as a fundamental human right.

This episode offers a deep dive into the intersection of technology, law, and privacy. Mike provides valuable insights on the current and future landscape of data governance and shares his hope for Data Privacy in the future.

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