The issue focused on Internet regulations that require broadband providers to obtain permission before sharing customers' private data with advertisers and other third parties. But companies such as AT&T and Comcast argued that they don't actually track customers and instead charge companies like Facebook for access to such data.

Advocacy groups including Public Knowledge and Free Press argue that such regulations amount to government censorship and surveillance of Americans' Internet usage. The regulations would force broadband providers to obtain permission from customers before sharing information about them with advertisers and other