Yahoo clarifies privacy policy

Yahoo has redrafted its privacy policy in an effort to clarify how its customers' personal information is collected and used.

While the web portal has always posted its privacy policy on its 80-plus web properties, the company yesterday placed new notices throughout its network, including on its front page. Users are able to learn how their information is being collected at various points, such as when they sign up for offers or complete a purchase.

Web users have become increasingly wary of how their information is being used by sites. Online advertising agency Doubleclick recently came under fire over its alleged practice of matching data about individual consumers and their internet habits with public information such as addresses and phone numbers. And last week, Microsoft admitted a flaw in its Hotmail email service which sends users' email addresses to banner advertisers.

Srinija Srinivasan, vice president of editorial and directory at Yahoo, said: "Privacy is something that's interwoven throughout what we do." She said the recurring questions from users on privacy underscore the need for clear and accessible information.

At Yahoo's Privacy Center users can find additional links for assistance, special topics, reference and other privacy areas. The web page also outlines its use of cookies - the software that tracks web usage - stating that it allows advertisers to set and access cookie information.