Privacy Advocates Urge Maryland Investigation into Data Broker Practices

Why it matters locally: While Maryland's data privacy law is at the center of this story, the underlying concerns about data brokers selling personal information to law enforcement and federal agencies are relevant to Maine residents. Maine has its own privacy laws, and the practices of data brokers often span state lines, potentially affecting individuals nationwide.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Privacy advocacy organizations are urging Maryland officials to investigate data brokers operating within the state. These groups contend that certain data brokers are violating Maryland's data privacy law by selling personal information to law enforcement and federal immigration agencies. Maryland maintains one of the nation's most stringent data privacy laws. Advocates state that the alleged sales of data to police departments and federal immigration authorities by these brokers may contravene the provisions of this legislation.