Protecting Personal Data: The Fight Against Data Brokers and National Security Threats

The protection of personal data has become a top priority for the U.S. government, with concerns about data brokers and their potential threat to national security. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and Congress are taking action to regulate the buying and selling of consumer data through initiatives like the American Privacy Rights Act (APRA).

Recent data breaches, such as the Marriott incident in 2018, have highlighted the dangers of data brokers having access to sensitive information. Data brokers can compile lists of individuals based on various criteria, which could be used for malicious purposes like blackmail or targeted attacks.

APRA aims to hold data brokers accountable by requiring them to clearly disclose their intentions and inform consumers about the data they collect and share. The Federal Trade Commission will also create a database to track data brokers handling information for more than 5,000 individuals, allowing consumers to opt out of data collection.

Despite these efforts, critics argue that more needs to be done to regulate the data broker industry, which is expected to reach $460 billion by 2031. The lack of regulation poses a significant risk to consumer safety and security, as personal information can be easily exploited for nefarious purposes.

Director of the CFPB, Rohit Chopra, emphasized the importance of addressing these risks, stating, “When Americans’ information can be assembled into detailed dossiers, it raises serious concerns for safety and security.” The push for stricter regulations on data brokers is a crucial step towards protecting individuals’ privacy and preventing potential threats to national security.