Smith told the caucus that Microsoft believes it is the right time for federal privacy legislation because it has become increasingly clear that a comprehensive approach is needed to help protect consumers from identity theft and other misuses of their personal information. to learn more  about Microsoft’s views on privacy legislation, see www.microsoft.com/presspass/features/ 05/11-03privacy.mspx and www.microsoft.com/press  pass/press/2005/nov05/11-03dataprivacypR.mspx. privacy Legislation worldwide Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) is the premier forum for facilitating economic growth, cooperation, trade, and investment in the Asia-Pacific region.