CCPA (California)
CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act)
CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act) is a state-level privacy law in California, United States, that enhances privacy rights and consumer protection for residents of California. The CCPA came into effect on January 1, 2020, and it aims to give California residents more control over their personal information, ensuring transparency and accountability for businesses that collect, use, and share their data.
Key aspects of the CCPA include:
Right to Know: California residents have the right to know what personal information a business is collecting about them, why it is being collected, and how it will be used. Businesses must provide this information in a clear and accessible manner upon request.
Right to Access: Consumers can request access to the personal data that a business holds about them. This right allows individuals to obtain a copy of their data and understand how it is being used.
Right to Deletion: Consumers have the right to request that businesses delete the personal information they have collected about them, subject to certain exceptions (e.g., for compliance with legal obligations).
Right to Opt-Out: Consumers can opt-out of the sale of their personal data. Businesses are required to offer a “Do Not Sell My Personal Information” option on their website to allow consumers to exercise this right.
Right to Non-Discrimination: The CCPA protects individuals from discrimination if they exercise their privacy rights. For example, businesses cannot deny services, charge different prices, or offer lower-quality goods or services just because a consumer opts to exercise their rights under the CCPA.
Business Transparency and Accountability: Businesses must provide clear privacy notices that explain the types of personal data collected, the purposes for which the data is used, and third parties with whom it is shared. Additionally, businesses must have procedures in place for responding to consumer requests regarding their personal data.
Penalties: The CCPA grants enforcement powers to the California Attorney General and allows for civil penalties for non-compliance. Businesses that fail to comply with CCPA may be fined up to $7,500 per violation. If a consumer’s data is breached due to a lack of proper security, they may be entitled to damages.
Consumer Rights for Children: The CCPA includes special protections for children under the age of 16. Businesses must obtain opt-in consent from minors (aged 13-16) or from their parents if the minor is under 13, before collecting or selling their personal data.
The CCPA significantly strengthens consumer privacy rights in California and has inspired similar privacy laws in other U.S. states and globally. It is a critical framework for businesses operating in California to follow in order to avoid penalties and ensure that they handle personal data responsibly and transparently.
