Los Angeles, January 9, 2026
California has launched the Delete Request and Opt-out Platform (DROP), allowing residents to easily request the deletion of their personal information from over 500 data brokers. This new tool emphasizes the state’s commitment to consumer privacy and empowers individuals to manage their data more effectively. With processes in place to ensure compliance, Californians can reclaim their privacy through a straightforward online process, reflecting a broader movement towards enhanced data protection.
Los Angeles, CA – New California Tool Empowers Residents to Protect Personal Data
California residents now have a streamlined method to request the deletion of their personal information from data brokers, thanks to the launch of the Delete Request and Opt-out Platform (DROP). This state-operated online tool enables users to submit a single request to have their data removed from over 500 registered data brokers. This initiative highlights California’s ongoing commitment to consumer privacy while fostering the innovation needed to navigate today’s complex data landscape.
The emergence of DROP marks a significant step in empowering individuals to take control of their personal information. In an era where digital visibility is often equated with vulnerability, this tool offers a practical solution for Californians looking to reclaim their privacy without excessive bureaucracy. By embracing such initiatives, we can encourage a culture of innovation and self-advocacy that could inspire further enhancements in consumer protections.
How DROP Works
Utilizing the DROP platform is straightforward for Californians. To effectively use DROP, residents need to:
- Confirm their residency in California.
- Provide basic personal information, such as full name, phone number, and email address.
- Submit the deletion request through the platform.
Once a request is submitted, data brokers are mandated to process these requests within 90 days starting August 1, 2026. This process ensures data brokers delete the individual’s information at least every 45 days thereafter, providing Californians with a systematic approach to managing their data privacy.
Benefits of Using DROP
Residents who choose to use DROP can enjoy several benefits:
- Reduction of unwanted communications, such as spam calls, texts, and emails.
- Lowered risk of identity theft and fraud, which has become a growing concern in the digital age.
- Increased control over how personal information is utilized by third parties, allowing individuals to make informed decisions.
This initiative is not just about providing an online tool; it reflects a broader movement towards strengthening consumer privacy and data protection across the state.
Background on the Delete Act
The DROP platform came into existence through the California Delete Act (Senate Bill 362), signed into law in October 2023. The legislation mandates that data brokers must register with the California Privacy Protection Agency, thus holding them accountable for how they handle consumer data. By empowering Californians with the right to request deletion of their information, the state is taking meaningful steps to safeguard its residents’ privacy.
Additional Privacy Measures
Alongside implementing DROP, residents are encouraged to adopt other privacy measures to enhance their data security. These can include:
- Using virtual private networks (VPNs) to bolster online privacy.
- Rejecting unnecessary cookies while browsing to limit tracking.
- Enabling anti-phishing features in browsers to avoid scams.
- Securing social media and email accounts with strong, unique passwords.
Such practices complement the protections offered by DROP, creating an even safer online environment for Californians.
Looking Ahead
As the DROP platform becomes operational, it is vital for Californians to take advantage of this tool. By actively managing personal data, residents can better safeguard their privacy in an ever-evolving digital landscape. The state remains committed to enforcing regulations designed to protect consumer information and ensure compliance among data brokers, which will, in turn, foster a culture of accountability and protection in the data-driven economy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Delete Request and Opt-out Platform (DROP)?
- DROP is a state-operated online tool that allows California residents to submit a single request to have their personal information deleted from over 500 registered data brokers.
- How do I use DROP?
- To use DROP, confirm your California residency, provide basic personal information, and submit the deletion request through the platform.
- What are the benefits of using DROP?
- Using DROP can reduce unwanted communications, lower the risk of identity theft and fraud, and give you greater control over how your personal information is used by third parties.
- What is the Delete Act?
- The Delete Act (Senate Bill 362) is California legislation that mandates data brokers to register with the California Privacy Protection Agency and provides consumers with the right to request the deletion of their personal information from these brokers.
- What other privacy measures can I take?
- In addition to using DROP, consider using virtual private networks (VPNs), rejecting unnecessary cookies, enabling anti-phishing features, and securing your social media and email accounts with strong, unique passwords.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| DROP Platform | A state-operated online tool that allows California residents to submit a single request to have their personal information deleted from over 500 registered data brokers. |
| Delete Act (Senate Bill 362) | California legislation that mandates data brokers to register with the California Privacy Protection Agency and provides consumers with the right to request the deletion of their personal information from these brokers. |
| Benefits of Using DROP | Reduces unwanted communications, lowers the risk of identity theft and fraud, and gives consumers greater control over how their personal information is used by third parties. |
| Additional Privacy Measures | Using virtual private networks (VPNs), rejecting unnecessary cookies, enabling anti-phishing features, and securing social media and email accounts with strong, unique passwords. |
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