EU countries, lawmakers reach data rule deal targeting Big Tech
- The European Commission proposed the Data Act last year to cover data generated in smart gadgets, machinery and consumer products
- The new legislation also gives consumers and companies a say on what can be done with the data generated by their connected products
European Union countries and EU lawmakers on Tuesday agreed on rules that govern how Big Tech and other companies use consumer and corporate data in the continent, with safeguards against non-EU governments gaining illegal access.
The European Commission proposed the Data Act last year to cover data generated in smart gadgets, machinery and consumer products, part of a raft of legislation aimed at curbing the power of US tech giants.
EU concerns about data transfers have grown, following revelations by former US intelligence contractor Edward Snowden in 2013 of mass US surveillance.
The agreement was reached after seven hours of talks.
“Tonight’s agreement on the Data Act is a milestone in reshaping the digital space … we are on the way of a thriving EU data economy that is innovative and open – on our conditions,” EU industry chief Thierry Breton said in a tweet.
The new legislation gives both individuals and businesses more control over their data generated through smart objects, machines and devices, allowing them to copy or transfer data easily from across different services.
