FTC Commissioner Orson Swindle Receives 2004 Privacy Leadership Award

The International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) today presented the 2004 Privacy Leadership Award to Federal Trade Commissioner Orson Swindle. The IAPP cited the Commissioner's deep understanding of the nature of privacy and security, along with the positive influence he has had in shaping public policy issues such as the fight against spam, online privacy, information security, consumer protection, international privacy, and electronic data protection as reasons for choosing Swindle for this award. The announcement and special presentation were made at a reception at the International Spy Museum, honoring the Commissioner during the IAPP 2004 Privacy & Data Security Summit & Expo in Washington, DC.

"The path to more effective privacy protection is a journey, not a destination," Swindle said. "We need to be vigilant in enforcing the privacy laws we have on the books. At the same time, we in government, industry and civil society must continue working together to keep the dialogue going with sharp focus on improving protection of individual privacy and reaping the benefits of the free flow of information."

"Commissioner Swindle's understanding of the importance of privacy and his leadership within the FTC have led directly to a greater understanding within the business community of the imperative need for consumer privacy protections - achievements all the more impressive when considered against a lifetime of dedicated service to his country," said Chris Zoladz, President of the IAPP Board of Directors. "During a time when issues like unsolicited e-mail, fraud and identity theft, medical and financial information privacy, and protecting our children from online predators dominate the headlines, Mr. Swindle has provided a steady hand to help meet the challenges that face both business and government."

Sworn in as a Republican Commissioner in 1997, Swindle recognized privacy's significance early on. He maintains a philosophical belief that private sector-led solutions will yield the greatest benefits. He believes, however, that government has a role to play through appropriate and aggressive law enforcement and education to promote responsible industry self regulation and common sense solutions to achieve maximum privacy and security protection for consumers. By naming him the 2004 recipient of its Privacy Leadership Award, the IAPP recognizes Commission Swindle's tireless advocacy for the protection of consumer privacy.