Data privacy is on many people’s minds. Websites you browse every day often track data, and spam calls, texts, and emails are common. Today, with personal data more accessible than ever, it is increasingly important for people to understand and control it. In response to these concerns, California passed a Senate Bill, called the Delete Act, that creates a platform to help Californians control more of their data.
What is the Delete Act?
The Delete Act (SB 362) allows Californians to delete data from data brokers in one step. The California Privacy Protection Agency created the Delete Request and Opt-Out Platform (DROP), where Californians can tell data brokers not to sell or use their data. The website is free and easy to use, and you can find the link here.
Why is the Delete Act important?
The new bill helps you control who has access to your personal data, enhance data security, and limit spam and scam attempts, including calls, texts, and emails. Data brokers collect a variety of personal information, including your name, IP address, purchase history, browsing history, and other sensitive personal information. Sensitive personal information can include your social security number, bank details, and more.
What is a data broker?
While most consumers are aware that their data is often being saved and used, data brokers are the companies responsible for it. A data broker is a company that collects and sells data, often through a variety of methods, including your browsing history, public records, and more. This data is used to create consumer profiles and is often sold to third-party companies. With the new Delete Act, Californians can request the deletion of their data from hundreds of data brokers and gain greater control over their personal information.
You can learn more about the Delete Act here.