SEATTLE, Wash. - 18 September 2001 - The Internet Law and Policy Forum today announced that Andrew Konstantaras is joining the ILPF as the new executive director.

Since its inception, the ILPF has been a leader in addressing the substantive policy issues raised by the Internet, such as content liability, jurisdiction, and electronic authentication. "On behalf of the Board of Directors and all ILPF members, I am very happy to welcome Andrew back into the ILPF in his new role as executive director" said Masanobu Katoh, Chairman of the ILPF and General Manager for Fujitsu. "Andrew's knowledge and background in the law, technology, policy and business of the Internet make him the ideal person to lead the ILPF into its next stage of growth."

According to Konstantaras, "The ILPF is uniquely positioned to tackle the complex, interwoven issues of law, technology, policy and business. The ILPF's membership is comprised of an impressive, diverse group of companies that are making and remaking the Internet on a daily basis. The individuals involved not only have considerable expertise in law and policy, but also a strong background in business and technology. I am looking forward to working with these companies to promote the continued growth of the Internet and electronic commerce."

Before joining the ILPF, Konstantaras was the vice president of marketing and general counsel for Asta Networks, a network reliability company. He has been a leader in the Internet law and policy community for the past seven years, speaking at international conferences and working with governments all over the world.

Konstantaras was also the vice president and counsel at Visa International, where he was one of the original members of the ILPF and played a significant role in the critical early years of the organization. He is also grounded in the practical aspects of the business of the Internet and its legal dimensions. He has represented major players in the technology industry in both transactional matters and intellectual property litigation. Konstantaras is also a member of the U.S. patent bar.

Konstantaras received his law degree from Georgetown University Law Center and his undergraduate degree in Physics and Chemistry from Grinnell College. His experience includes working as a legislative staff assistant in the U.S. Senate as well as clerking for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit.

About the Internet Law & Policy Forum

The ILPF is a global, Internet-based non-profit organization committed to promoting the growth of the Internet and electronic commerce. The ILPF offers a spectrum of resources and opportunities for lawyers and policy experts to learn, discuss and resolve the challenges raised by the Internet. These resources include working groups, workshops and conferences designed to analyze legal and policy issues. The ILPF is committed to providing a neutral forum to address the substantive issues in a practical and realistic manner. The ILPF members are Internet companies from all over the world. For more information, visit www.ilpf.org.

Press Contact:
Marilyn Malenfant
+1.514.639.9118
malenfant@ilpf.org