Does My Website Need A Privacy Policy? And Other Digital Privacy Laws

February 28, 2019

A list of online privacy laws most websites must follow Even though the United States doesn’t have a federal, all-encompassing online privacy law, state and international statutes still apply.

Online Privacy Laws

Depending on location, industry, and business model, digital privacy laws apply. Adherence qualifications vary business to business, but there are a handful of laws to which the majority of stateside companies must adhere.

California’s Online Privacy Statutes

The California Online Privacy Protection Act of 2003 is a sweeping digital privacy law to which any website or app that allows access to Californians must adhere, and as such is considered the nation’s de facto digital privacy law. It’s the law that requires websites to post privacy policies.

General Data Protection Rule

An EU edict, the General Data Protection Rule affects all websites and apps that allow access to European and UK residents. Yes, if you allow people from England to use your platform, you must follow guidelines laid out in the GDPR. For more details, click here. The gist: Users have a right to know what identifying data you collect and store, and they also have the right to delete it.

COPPA: Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act

The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act does as advertised: It guards kids’ identities online. A comprehensive program, any website, app, or digital platform that someone under the age of 12 may want to use is subject to its inflexible parameters. Click here to learn more.

Financial Online Privacy: Gramm–Leach–Bliley

The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Bill is a financial services statute that includes a comprehensive privacy rule. Any company that collects credit card information in conjunction with personal data should adhere to the statute. Go here for more details.

Connect with an Online Privacy Lawyer

Copying a competitor’s privacy policy is never a good idea. It’s a monumentally awful idea. Not only do you risk copyright violations, but your business may be subject to different regulations. You have no idea how that company is set up under the proverbial hood. As such, their terms may not work for you; they may augment your exposure and invite legal troubles.

Connect with an online privacy lawyer who can tailor user agreements and privacy policies to your exact situation. The other benefit of working with us: Our lawyers focus on both corporate governance and tax law and can advise on how to best position yourself for maximum profit.

Get in touch today to begin the conversation.

Request a Free Consultation

Use the form below or call (847) 580-1279