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Data Privacy Challenges for Global App Developers

by Global Link Law
May 20, 2024
data privacy

In today’s digital age, navigating the complex landscape of US data privacy laws is crucial for app developers worldwide. Even seemingly low-risk data collection activities can trigger legal obligations that must be carefully considered and complied with. Companies developing apps for customers must consider key challenges related to data privacy.

Understanding Data Privacy and Legal Obligations

If you have an app available to customers and are collecting data, including personal information, you must adhere to a myriad of US data privacy laws. These laws aim to protect consumers’ privacy rights and regulate the handling of their personal data. Failure to comply with these laws can result in severe penalties and legal consequences.

Compliance Challenges

Ensuring compliance with US data privacy laws becomes even more complex when your app is accessible worldwide and accessed by users in the US. Each state may have its own set of privacy laws, such as the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), which imposes strict requirements on businesses collecting personal information from California residents. Navigating these varying laws and regulations requires a thorough understanding of their scope and implications.

Vendor Agreements

Numerous businesses partner with platforms like Facebook and Google to enhance their website or app traffic. These platforms typically offer standard agreements, but it’s crucial for companies to review these contracts to ensure compliance with relevant laws. Customizing agreements to meet specific legal requirements is key to minimizing legal risks and ensuring adherence to regulations

Target Audience

Non-US companies seeking to enter the US market with their app may overlook the legal obligations associated with data privacy laws. However, failing to comply with US laws when users in the US access their app can expose them to significant legal risks.  

Navigating US data privacy laws is a complex and multifaceted task for global app developers. From understanding legal obligations to customizing agreements and ensuring compliance with state-specific laws, there are numerous challenges to overcome. By proactively addressing these challenges and prioritizing compliance, app developers can mitigate legal risks and build trust with their users in the US market.

Some notable privacy enforcement actions include:

  • DoorDash settled for $375,000 over claims of selling customer data in violation of California privacy laws.
  • Google settled for $93 million with California over location-privacy violations.
  • Equifax settled for up to $600 million with various federal and state agencies over a 2017 data breach.
  • Uber settled for $148 million over a 2016 data breach.

California Office of the Attorney General. (n.d.). Privacy enforcement actions. Retrieved from https://www.oag.ca.gov/privacy/privacy-enforcement-actions

Contact Global Link Law to learn more about our training and consulting services and how we can help you understand your legal obligations.

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is created by accessing or using this website. Please consult with a qualified attorney before making any legal decisions. Global Link Law is not liable for any reliance on the information provided. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

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