The genetic testing company, 23andMe, known for its popular DNA ancestry and health reports, is facing a class-action lawsuit following a data breach that resulted in the personal information of Jewish customers being exposed on the dark web. The so-called “dark web” is the world wide web content that exists…
In the digital era, where personal interactions, commerce, and even the way we perceive reality have migrated to online platforms, data privacy has become a paramount concern. Among the technology giants, Facebook, now rebranded as Meta, stands as a towering figure in the realm of social media and virtual reality.…
The rapid growth of the internet and the widespread use of social media platforms have provided individuals with new avenues for communication, networking, and information sharing. However, the rise of the digital age has also brought about the concerning issue of internet cyberspace harassment. Online harassment encompasses various forms of…
The franchise and business opportunity rules mandate sellers to issue a clear and concise disclosure document at least ten days before the consumer pays funds. The document must include the following information: Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of other purchasers; Fully-audited financial statement of the seller; Background and experience of…
The federal Lanham Act (“Lanham Act”) allows civil actions for false advertising that misrepresents the nature, characteristics, qualities, or geographic origin of goods or services. See 15 U.S.C. § 1125(a) stating in relevant part as follows: (1) Any person who, on or in connection with any goods or services, or any…
It is not legal or ethical to engage in false or misleading advertising for selling products or services. This is especially true when the advertising harms consumers or competitors in violation of state or federal laws. A business that uses misleading words for the sale of a product or service…
A business organization has legal responsibilities when it comes to data access, control, and management. The government has recently issued an opinion regarding disclosure requirements for the so-called “inferred data” which comprise of internally generated inferences within the context of a consumer’s right of access request. California Civil Code Section…
We’ve discussed how the states have passed privacy laws to protect their residents. We have also referenced the state and federal rules or regulations that are designed to promote transparency, security, accuracy, proper data collection, and accountability. The Federal Constitution has not expressly mentioned the right to privacy. However, under…
We have briefly discussed some of the state and federal privacy laws that are applicable to consumers and commercial organizations. It is important to understand how personal information is being obtained and distributed by businesses. Personal information is also being obtained and distributed by bad actors – i.e., criminals who…
Part I: DMV Sale of Personal Information A group has investigated and allegedly found that the California Department of Motor Vehicles has earned more than $50 million by selling personal information of drivers to third parties without consent. This data may include names, addresses, and registration information. The DMV claims…