CFPB Rule on Data Brokers

Posted 12/4/24

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has proposed a rule to rein in data brokers that sell Americans' sensitive personal and financial information. The December 3rd proposal would make clear that when data brokers sell certain sensitive consumer information they are "consumer reporting agencies" under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), requiring them to comply with accuracy requirements, provide consumers access to their information, and maintain safeguards against misuse.

“By selling our most sensitive personal data without our knowledge or consent, data brokers can profit by enabling scamming, stalking, and spying,” said CFPB Director Rohit Chopra. “The CFPB’s proposed rule will curtail these practices that threaten our personal safety and undermine America’s national security.”

Companies that sell data about income or financial tier, credit history, credit score, or debt payments would be considered consumer reporting agencies required to comply with the FCRA, regardless of how the information is used.

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