Over a dozen states have proposed or already are implementing privacy laws to protect the Personally Identifiable Information (PII) of its citizens. Each of these laws has unique requirements as well as unique penalties for not complying. Some states are proposing businesses be fined over $5,000 per infringement (per website visitor). Some states are proposing private right of action (meaning citizens of that state can sue businesses anywhere in the US). Read our state privacy law tracker for more information.
These laws do not care where the business is located. The laws are only out to protect its citizens.
Websites that ask for a ‘name’ and ’email’ address on a contact form are collecting PII and need to not only have a compliant Privacy Policy, but also need a strategy to keep their policy up to date when these laws are added or changed.
In summary:
- Avoid massive fines and lawsuits
- Limit your liability
- Keep control of your website
- Protect your intellectual-property
- Ensure legitimacy to your website visitors
