On April 14, 2009, the European Commission (EC) launched infringement proceedings against the UK government by issuing an infringement notice for alleged breaches of EU data protection laws. The proceedings were prompted by complaints from Internet users about the use of a behavioral advertising technology by Internet advertising company Phorm Inc. Phorm’s tracker technology enables Internet service providers (ISPs) to analyze users’ online behavior in order to build up user profiles and deliver targeted advertising. The EC proposes a range of amendments to the UK’s legislation, including prohibiting unlawful interception and surveillance techniques, without first seeking the user’s prior consent (“opt-in” principles). The UK has two months to respond to the notice. Further information is available here