TO: Editors, News Directors

DATE: January 14, 2002

FOR: Immediate Release

Qwest Privacy Policy Topic of January 16 Meeting
Regulators Want to Hear from Qwest and Public

PHOENIX - Could consumer information be sold to the highest bidder? Or is Qwest just planning to share data among its affiliate companies? What kind of confirmation notices will consumers receive to prove that their information will not be shared? These are questions that public utility regulators expect to be answered in a Special Open Meeting at 10:00 a.m. on January 16, 2002 in Phoenix. Arizona Corporation Commission Chairman Bill Mundell and Commissioners Jim Irvin and Marc Spitzer all agreed to hold the meeting as soon as their schedules permitted. Consumers who would like to speak out about the phone company's privacy policy are invited do so at this meeting.

Qwest Corporation recently notified consumers that they must "opt out" by calling a special phone number (1-877-628-3732) or filling out a page on Qwest's website (www.qwest.com/cpni). Customers who do not opt out can expect that their information will be shared with Qwest affiliates such as Qwest Wireless, Qwest DEX and "firms that have marketing agreements with us," according to the privacy notice.

The Commissioners have asked their legal staff to review the federal court decision that pertains to the privacy notice and advise them about what steps Arizona may take to protect consumers. "I think it's fair to say that my fellow Commissioners and I are strong defenders of privacy," Commission Chairman Bill Mundell said. "We have held Qwest's feet to the fire on other issues and we'll do it again if we have to."

Commissioner Jim Irvin added "We are anxious to hear what the company and consumers have to say on Wednesday. I am particularly interested in hearing exactly what information they plan to disclose and, more importantly, how they plan to use it. As regulators, we need to get this information in the public record and Qwest needs to come forward and tell consumers what they plan to do with sensitive customer information."

"The right to privacy is a fundamental American value. In Arizona, our state constitution specifically recognizes and guarantees that right," observed Commissioner Marc Spitzer. "Arizona can rest assured, this Commission will review every option and pursue every means available to ensure that Arizona consumers' private information remains private."

The Special Open Meeting will take place at 10:00 a.m. on January 16, 2002 at 1200 West Washington in Phoenix.