Internet Health Sites Pledge Tighter Security

A coalition of 18 Internet health sites said they have agreed to abide by more stringent rules to protect consumers’ privacy and confidentiality. Under the new rules, participating companies, including America Online Inc. and Drkoop.com, will collect data only from users who “opt-in” by specifically granting permission. Sites that abide by the standards will qualify for a new “E-Health” seal administered by Truste, an Internet privacy watchdog group. A Truste spokesman said the seal will be introduced early next year.