Cybersecurity Policy Report, Right to Opt Out of Data-Sharing Highlighted by California AG, (Jan 31, 2025)

By Tony Foley

Earlier this week, to mark Data Privacy Day, California Attorney General Rob Bonta (D.) issued a news release reminding Californians of their right to opt out of the sale or sharing of their personal information under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA).

In the release, issued Tuesday, AG Bonta encouraged consumers to consider familiarizing themselves with the Global Privacy Control (GPC), an easy-to-use browser setting or extension that automatically signals to businesses that they should not sell consumer information to third parties, including for targeted advertising.

“Every single one of our online interactions is a robust source of data that broadcasts who we are, what we like, and how we live. Many websites install tracking software that allows third parties to track consumers, use the information they learn to create entire profiles of users, and deploy targeted ads that follow us around our time surfing the web,” said AG Bonta. “Today, I remind Californians of their right to opt-out and take back control of their personal data. Global Privacy Control is the easiest way to limit the number of third parties that have access to our personal information and online behavioral data. I also encourage mobile device manufacturers to develop an easy, GPC-like feature that consumers can use to signal the right to opt-out.”

The release outlined the methods by which consumers may opt out of sales or sharing of their personal data, including enabling a GPC or opting out one business at a time using a clear and conspicuous “Do Not Sell of Share My Personal Information” link on a business’ website. Consumers that do not see such a link are encouraged to review its privacy policy to see if it engages in such activity. If it does, the business is required to include the link in its privacy policy. If the link is not working or difficult to find, the AG urges consumers to report the business to the AG at oag.ca.gov/report.

News: StateLegislation DataPrivacy CCPA