What is a Data Broker? Navigating the New Laws Protecting Consumer Privacy

By Mack Jackson Jr.

In today’s interconnected world, data has become the new currency, and data brokers are the key players in the currency exchange. Understanding their role and the recent legal amendments protecting consumer privacy is critical for businesses looking to mitigate risks and maintain trust.

What is a Data Broker?

A data broker is an entity that collects, processes and sells or trades data to other businesses or agencies. Unlike primary data collectors — such as social media platforms or retailers, who gather information directly from consumers — data brokers accumulate data from multiple sources. These sources can include public records, surveys, and other data collectors, thereby creating comprehensive consumer profiles. Data brokers operate in various industries, including marketing, finance, healthcare, and more, offering data analytics services to help businesses make informed decisions.

The Scope and Scale

The vast networks and sophisticated technologies data brokers deploy can gather thousands of data points about individual consumers. This information is not limited to names and email addresses but can extend to susceptible information like social security numbers, health records, and even behavioral patterns. Data brokers use this data for multiple purposes, from targeted advertising to loan risk assessment.

Consumer Privacy Concerns

While data brokers can provide valuable insights for businesses, their activities raise substantial ethical and privacy concerns. Consumers must often be aware that their data is being harvested and sold. This lack of transparency has led to a growing call for regulation, as uncontrolled data circulation can lead to identity theft, fraud, and other cyber risks.

New Privacy Laws

Data brokers recognize the potential risks to their business, and new laws have been enacted to protect consumer privacy. The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and its successor, the California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA), are prime examples in the United States. These laws grant consumers more control over their personal data, allowing them to know what is being collected, request deletion, and opt out of the sale of their data.

The European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) takes it further by requiring businesses to obtain explicit consumer consent before collecting or processing their data. Non-compliance can result in hefty fines, making it imperative for companies to adhere to these regulations.

Implications for Business

These laws represent a paradigm shift in how businesses should handle data. Organizations are now mandated to be transparent about their data collection processes and must provide consumers with options to control their personal data. This increased focus on privacy presents both challenges and opportunities. While businesses may need to overhaul their data collection and storage practices, adhering to these new laws can enhance consumer trust and brand reputation.

Data brokers play a pivotal role in the modern data ecosystem, but their operations often tread a fine line between business intelligence and consumer exploitation. With new privacy laws now in place, businesses must take proactive steps to understand their responsibilities in data management and consumer rights protection. Adhering to these laws is not just a legal requirement but a moral imperative that can significantly enhance your corporate responsibility and public image.

About the Author — Mack Jackson Jr

Mack Jackson Jr. is the CEO of Vanderson Cyber Group. In the age of global cyber threats, Vanderson Cyber Group helps businesses protect themselves from cyberattacks by teaching them cybersecurity awareness. Vanderson Cyber Group uses state-of-the-art practices in security policy development and comprehensive employee training. One of the essential services is phishing simulation and compliance training, which keep employees up-to-date on the threat landscape. Vanderson Cyber Group also provides resources for cyber insurance, managed services, and legal representation. For more information: http://www.vandersoncybergroup.com