algorithmic transparency Comments Democracy and Cybersecurity policy
EPIC Calls on FEC to Pass Stronger Transparency Rules for Political Ads
EPIC submitted comments on the Federal Election Commission's (FEC) proposed rules for political ads on the internet. The FEC proposed two alternative rules, one which would hold internet companies to the same standard as traditional media companies and one which would make exceptions for online ads. EPIC stated: "FEC rules should be technology-neutral and consistent across media platforms." EPIC also recommended that the FEC adopt algorithmic transparency rules, which would require advertisers to disclose the demographic factors behind targeted political ads, as well as the source and payment, and maintain a public directory of advertiser data. EPIC's Project on Democracy and Cybersecurity, established after the 2016 presidential election, seeks to safeguard democratic institutions from various forms of cyber attack.