Focused on Privacy BLOG

Welcome to the Focused On Privacy Blog! From breaking developments, to nuanced issues I encounter, to resources available across the internet–this blog is designed to provide a resource for both the beginner privacy enthusiast and the seasoned expert alike.

Effective Privacy Governance: How to “Bucket” State Obligations

As of the date of this post, there are at least nineteen comprehensive state privacy laws that have been passed and signed into law. Seven of those laws are currently in effect with active enforcement by state regulators. By this time next year (July 2025) an additional eight states will be in effect. Below is…
California Usurps Federal Privacy Action (Again)

Most Americans expect the federal government to be involved in international agreements on individual rights affecting U.S. citizens. California has partnered with France on data privacy protections, following the cancellation of a federal privacy rights act discussion. This collaboration signals a shift towards more cohesive global privacy regulations and may influence California’s privacy legislation approach.
SEC Guidance: Providing Clarity on Private Sharing of Cybersecurity Incident Information

In July 2023, the SEC mandated public companies to annually disclose material cybersecurity incidents and risk management details to protect investors. The new rules aim for consistent disclosure and timely reporting within four business days, but caused confusion about how these disclosures may prohibit or limit the ability to discuss additional details as part of…
Happy Birthday: The EU General Data Protection Regulation Turns 6

A friend of mine and I decided to take our moms on a tour of Spain and France for the last few weeks of May. So, it was merely a (fun) coincidence that we were able to toast the anniversary of the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) with a glass of cava in Barcelona…
Shining a Light on Dark Patterns

I have always been fascinated with psychology. It was my major in college and one of my favorite reading topics ever since. So, what does psychology have to do with privacy? As it turns out, quite a lot. In particular, design patterns in digital platforms often leverage psychology to encourage individuals to interact with the…
California Privacy Protection Agency Provides Summary of Pending California Privacy Legislation

In advance of the upcoming May 10th meeting, the California Privacy Protection Agency released meeting materials to provide context to several agenda items. In particular, the California Privacy Protection Agency Board voted unanimously to: In addition, the materials provide a snapshot of the California legislative calendar, along with a list of eight pending bills that…