California's new DROP tool lets residents wipe their data from 500+ brokers in one request
With DROP, Californians can ask every registered data broker to delete their personal information at once.
California has launched DROP (Delete Requests and Opt-Out Platform). Verified residents can now send one request asking all registered data brokers to delete their personal data.
What data?
Brokers collect and sell information such as Social Security numbers, browsing history, email addresses and phone numbers.
How it works
- Covers more than 500 registered brokers, current and future
- Brokers must start processing requests in August 2026
- Each has 90 days to delete the data and report back
- Brokers that fail to comply face $200 per day in penalties
What isn't deleted
Companies may keep first-party data you gave them directly. Vehicle registration and voter records are also exempt as public documents.
Why it matters
The tool only applies in California, but it shows how personal data protection has become a global issue. Your data online is worth money.
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