New Privacy Division Created by Massachusetts Attorney General

Aug 17, 2020

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By: Natasha G. Kohne, Rebecca Kocsis (Legal Project Analyst)

The new Data Privacy and Security Division will focus on protecting consumers’ data privacy, empowering consumers in the digital economy and promoting equal and open access to the internet. The creation of the division signals that the AG’s office is placing a higher priority on privacy and security, as well as investigating and enforcing the Massachusetts Consumer Protection Act and Data Breach Law.

“The Data Privacy and Security Division will build on our office’s commitment to empowering Massachusetts consumers in the digital economy, ensuring that companies are protecting personal data, and promoting equal and open access to the internet,” said AG Healey. “Sara has spearheaded these efforts within our office for years and we are excited to have her leading this new division.”

The creation of the Data Privacy and Security Division is a clear indication that the AG’s office is serious about the enforcement of privacy laws as well as protecting equal access to the Internet. Companies should expect that creation of the new division will result in more aggressive enforcement of the state’s laws, and companies should update their compliance efforts accordingly. If you have any questions about your company’s compliance efforts, please contact a member of the Akin Gump Cybersecurity, Privacy and Data Protection team.

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