International:Russia Enacts Right To Be Forgotten Law

Russia has enacted a law requiring search engines to remove website links containing inaccurate, outdated, or unlawfully released personal information.  Much like the European Court of Justice’s ruling in May 2014 establishing a “right to be forgotten” in the EU, Federal Law No. 264-FZ allows Russian citizens to request that search engines remove website links from search results if they contain information that is false, outdated, or violates Russian law.  However, the law does not apply to information about criminal offenses or to search engines operated by federal and municipal authorities.  Individuals may file lawsuits against the search engines if their requests are denied.  The law, which was signed by President Vladimir Putin on July 14, takes effect on January 1, 2016.

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International: China Seeks To Tighten Control Over Internet With Draft Cybersecurity Law

The Chinese parliament has issued a draft cybersecurity law aimed at “safeguarding China’s sovereignty over cyberspace and national security and public interests.”  The law outlines a plan for a multi-level system to prevent unauthorized network access, and calls for Internet-related industry associations, ISPs, and businesses to strengthen their cybersecurity standards.  It also establishes specific security requirements for operators and suppliers of networks and critical information infrastructure, including a provision that requires ISPs to store on Chinese territory any data collected within China and to obtain government approval before storing data overseas for business purposes.  If enacted, the draft law would allow the Chinese government to expand its online censorship practices and its control over Internet service providers and foreign firms operating in the country.

Sounds like certain movements in South Africa...worrying movements.

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