Definition
Information a company collects about its users, including personal information and usage statistics.
Why it matters
Protecting user data is a legal requirement and can impact user trust and regulatory compliance. In the United States, various laws govern the security and protection of user data for technology and software companies. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) mandates the protection of medical information, requiring healthcare-related technology firms to implement robust data security measures. Similarly, the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) imposes certain requirements on operators of websites or online services directed to children under 13 years of age. The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) provides California residents with specific rights regarding their personal information and requires businesses to uphold stringent data protection standards. Additionally, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) enforces privacy laws and holds companies accountable for failing to protect consumer data, as per the promises made in their privacy policies. Through these and other regulations, the US legal framework aims to ensure a high level of data security and user privacy across different sectors within the technology industry.
