Disney CEO Bob Iger Respondes to Inquires About MyMagic+
Disney CEO Bob Iger responded to inquires from Rep. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) on privacy concerns related to the upcoming MyMagic+ roll out that we discussed here last week. In the scathing letter to Markey, Iger not only lays out the facts of the program's focus on privacy from the outset, but calls Markey and his staff out for not taking the time to do their research before publicly attacking Disney. In addition to his letter, Iger included URL's to Disney's corporate privacy policy (that has been online all along) as well as attaching appropriate documents.
In his response CEO Bob Iger tells Rep Markey
We are offended by the ludicrous and utterly ill-informed assertion in your letter... that we would in any way haphazardly or recklessly introduce a program that manipulates children, or wantonly puts their safety at risk.
He goes on to say
It is truly unfortunate and extremely disappointing that you chose to publicly attack us before taking the time to review our policies and/or contact us for information
Then, to make sure that the point Iger was trying to make didn't get lost in the attached documents
To ensure that you fully understand our practices as they pertain to children, and our commitment to our guests' privacy, let me be clear and reiterate the basic facts. MyMagic+ is a completely optional program that was designed with privacy controls from the outset.
You can read Bob Iger's letter in it's entirety with attached documents online thanks to Theme Park Insider Robert Niles.
In discussions last week on our Facebook Page and in our forums, most WDW For Grown Ups readers felt that Congress should stick to fixing more "monumental issues" of the country rather than focus on a completely optional program at Walt Disney World. Many readers also expressed the view that they trusted Disney and felt safer in Disney's hands than in those of Congress.
How do you feel about the brewing feud between Markey & Iger? Do you like the response that Iger sent to the Congressman, or do you feel it's sharp tone was very un-Disney-like? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think.
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Shawn Kerr wrote on Mon, 02/04/2013 - 08:59:
The fact that this is completely optional, should end the discussion right away. Also, that anyone who thinks Disney doesn't track what they do is a little on the delusional side. What do you think happens every time you slide your key card/ticket through the park entrance gates? Or charge a gift shop purchase to your room on your key card? Or charge a dinner at X restaurant to your key card? It's basically the same thing, just enhanced.
Aside from all that if Disney wants to know what you're doing in the parks, they will know, no matter who you are or how old you are. And you don't really need to do anything I mentioned. Disney sees. And just because they're not in a cast member uniform doesn't mean they're a guest.
With an economy in the dump, millions out of work, etc etc - this is about a small of an issue the government needs to be involved in as I can think of.
I actually like the idea, and you never know what kind of magic Disney could weave, for adults and kids, if they do learn your doings. I'll opt-in if given the opportunity, won't even think about it. I'm just less crazy about the bracelet, I don't even wear a watch because I find it uncomfortable.
I like his response. I'm glad he put his foot down, not give the "politically correct" response he might be obliged to give.
Nonya wrote on Mon, 02/04/2013 - 16:41:
Funny how liberal Mr Iger and the liberal board of directors are being attacked by their liberal friends in the House.
Jessica Hart wrote on Mon, 02/04/2013 - 20:47:
This is crazy...Disney is the last place that I fear will steal from me or my family. I would be more worried about the government!
J D wrote on Tue, 04/02/2013 - 20:57:
Iger is out at Disney. He has been given the sack. He has lost his situation.
Kristen K. wrote on Wed, 04/03/2013 - 15:26:
I know some people would like that JD, but Iger is bringing record profits and has lead the way on ground breaking expansions. He's got HUGE approval margins with both the board and the shareholders. I doubt Bob will be going anywhere before his pre-planned departure in 2015.
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