Et tu, DMV? Is Your State Selling Your Data?
Did you know that even with the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), one of the toughest privacy laws in the U.S., the California DMV might still be selling your personal data? This surprising twist highlights a bigger problem. Many state DMVs across the country can legally sell your info to all kinds of groups, from insurance companies to private investigators.
Think about it. You need a state-issued ID for so much these days. Buying beer or cigarettes? Starting a new job? Opening a bank account? Booking a flight? It's a must-have. But here's the catch. That little card comes with a hidden cost: your privacy.
The Driver's Privacy Protection Act of 1994 (DPPA) sets the rules. It lets states share your personal details, like your name, address, or car info, with a long list of users. Courts and cops use it to solve cases. Car companies grab it for recalls. Towing firms track down owners. Employers, insurers, and even security services can peek at it for certain reasons. Here's the wild part. Marketing researchers can buy it too, as long as they don't call or email you directly. Crazy, right?
There's some good news. In states like Texas, you can say "no thanks" to this data sharing. Just file a request online or at the DMV. But not every state plays nice like that. You'll need to dig into your own state's rules to find out.
So, next time you're locking down your online accounts, add this to your list. Visit your DMV's website or give them a call. Ask two big questions. Are they selling your info? Can you stop them? If they say no to that second one, why not ask your state lawmakers what's up with that?
Remember, we may not have anything to hide, but everything to protect.
