FTC wants stronger rules on consumer data

Massive security breaches at Target and Neiman Marcus in 2013 put millions of customers at risk of identity theft and credit card fraud.

In light of these major rifts in consumer security, Federal Trade Commission chair Edith Ramirez is urging Congress to adopt several new rules to better protect consumer data such as credit card information, usernames and passwords.

"What we are seeking is that there are robust security requirements as well as a national breach notice requirement," said Chairwoman Ramirez. "We'd also like any national legislation to include FTC enforcement with a civil penalty." According to Chairwoman Ramirez, a federal requirement would benefit shoppers across state lines as well as aid law enforcement in prosecuting cybercrime.