California's New Privacy Bills: More Control Over Your Data
So, California just passed a bunch of new rules aiming to give us more control over our online information. Basically, they're trying to make it easier for regular folks to protect their data without needing to be tech experts. I think it's a step in the right direction, because let’s be honest, who actually reads all those privacy policies?
The main one, AB 566, is pretty cool. If you remember, back in 2018, California made a law where you could tell websites not to sell your info. That was the California Consumer Privacy Act. The problem was, you had to do it for every single website, one at a time. Seriously, who has the time for that? AB 566 changes that by forcing browsers like Chrome, Safari, and Firefox to have a setting where you can just say “no” to all third-party tracking with a single click. That sounds amazing, right?
I was a bit surprised when I found out that the governor actually vetoed a similar bill last year. His reason was that it was too broad, covering smartphone operating systems as well. He also mentioned that many browsers already have a one-click opt-out. But I agree with Consumer Watchdog – a truly universal option was missing.
There are two other changes as well. SB 361 makes the Data Broker Registration Law (also known as the Delete Act) even better. It's all about giving us more information about what data brokers collect and who they share it with. Think of data brokers like those behind-the-scenes companies that collect and sell your personal information – things like your age, location, and even your purchasing habits. They then sell this data to other companies for marketing, advertising, or even risk assessment purposes. The Delete Act is great because it shines a light on these data brokers, forcing them to register with the state and allowing consumers to request that their data be deleted.
And finally, AB 656 is about making it super easy to delete your social media accounts. No more hidden buttons or endless hoops to jump through. The idea is that canceling your account should be straightforward, and when you do, all your data should be completely wiped out. I've definitely been in situations where I've tried to delete an old account, and it felt like the company was actively trying to stop me! So, I feel this is a welcome change.
Source: Engadget