Top News – Google tests browsing cookies, NIST releases report on genomic data security, and more
Google’s final preparations for phasing out browsing cookies
Ahead of a fully planned phase out by the year’s end, Google launched its test to restrict cookies for one percent people using Chrome browser. The company is preparing to phase out browsing cookies in its Chrome by the end of 2024. Meanwhile, advertising stakeholders called Google to extend the planned phase-out and let the marketers assess replacement technologies. Read more
NIST publishes report on cybersecurity practices and genomic data security
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence released a report focusing on suggestions for genomic data security and cybersecurity practices. The final NIST IR 8432 report aims to help companies to assess, align, and prioritize their cyber investments for genomic information and strategies for risk mitigation. Summarizing the current practices and challenges, the guidance proposes solutions to secure genomic data. Read more
Colorado Attorney General’s notice to data controllers for universal opt-out mechanisms
Phil Weiser, Colorado’s attorney general, issued a notice to certain organizations meeting the CPA’s (Colorado Privacy Act) data controller requirements. Starting from 1 July 2024, these companies must provide universal opt-out mechanisms to consumers for processing their personal data for target advertising or its sale. The Attorney General’s office will maintain a list of such mechanisms that meet the opt-out standards as per the law. Read more
FTC settles facilitation of illegal robocalls with Response Tree LLC
California-based lead generator company Response Tree LLC agrees to a settlement that bans the company and its president Derek Thomas Doherty from making or assisting others in making robocalls on the national DNC (Do Not Call) Registry. Response Tree allegedly used dark patterns and operated more than fifty websites, coaxing consumers into providing their personal data and later used it for telemarketing calls. Read more
Montanna appealing to block the TikTok ban in the state
The Montanna Attorney General Office said on Tuesday that it would appeal U.S. District Judge Donald Molloy’s decision to ban the state residents from using short-video sharing app TikTok. The ban was meant to protect user privacy, but the judge ruled in November last year that the action was unconstitutional. The state is now appealing to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Read more
