Verizon's Email Privacy Policy
Privacy is certainly a foremost topic in America, especially since 9/11 and the evolution of homeland security laws, as well as the prevalence of identity theft. A portion of the personal privacy that most citizens want to keep secured includes personal information given to webmail service providers. The personal information provided to webmail services could be detrimental to an individual if ever placed in the wrong hands with malicious intent.
Verizon, though mostly known for its telecommunications services, also provides webmail to its subscriber customers. As part of their dedicated service, Verizon is committed to protecting the privacy and personal information of its subscribers and email accounts.
What Information Does Verizon Collect?
Verizon provides free web-based email to its subscribers of paid telecommunications services. While the email is free, the other services are not. In addition, customers are required to provide more personal information to Verizon than most other free webmail services would ask for. Information collected by Verizon includes full name, address, phone numbers, and other email addresses. In addition, Verizon will likely collect sensitive information, such as a Social Security number and credit card numbers, to keep on file.
However, in addition to personal information, Verizon will also collect data about internet usage. Anyone on a Verizon web site may have cookies placed on their computers that reveal hardware and software, as well as Verizon website browsing and buying activity. Also, those customers who subscribe to Verizon High Speed Internet or other internet service will automatically measure and monitor network performance.
With this kind of sensitive and private information in the hands of someone else, Verizon customers have a right to be concerned about how the information is stored and used.
How Verizon Uses Private Information
As mentioned, Verizon is committed to protecting private information. No private customer information is ever sold or rented to third-party companies. However, Verizon may share certain and limited private information with business partners and vendors who provide services to Verizon and/or their customers. Verizon does require its vendors and business partners to keep any shared information secured and used only for the intended purposes.
How to Limit Shared Information
Verizon customers do have options when it comes to their personal information. They may chose whether private information may be shared among the Verizon family of companies. In addition, they can opt-out of receiving email, postal, and even door-to-door calls from advertisers. More information about the Verizon privacy policy and how to change privacy options is available at the corporate website.