Having a privacy policy on your website is required by law in most countries.

Privacy policies need to define how a business (website owner) collects, stores, protects and uses personal information provided by users.

Many third-party services (like Facebook advertising) require you have a valid privacy policy in place in order to comply with their terms of service. This normally comes as a surprise to many of my clients.

Even if you are running a personal blog it’s best to include a privacy policy just to protect yourself.

Here is what you need to know

California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)

The CCOA is a law to enhance privacy rights and consumer protection for residents of California.

User Data Rights

• Know what personal information is collected
• Know whether and to whom data is sold, and have the right to opt-out
• Access personal information 
• Request that a business delete personal information
• Not be discriminated against for exercising rights under the act 

Who manages and oversees?

California State Attorney General

Who must comply?

Businesses that collect and control the personal information of California residents.

How is it enforced?

• California Attorney General & Californians can initiate lawsuits
• Fines up to $7,500 for intentional violations and $2,500 for unintentional violations 

Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) 

The COPPA is a law to protect the privacy of people under the age of 13.

Key requirements

• Notice and parental consent before data collection
• "Clear and comprehensive" privacy policy
• Keep data confidential and secure

Who manages and oversees?

Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

Who must comply?

All companies interacting with U.S children 13 and younger

How is it enforced?

• FTC relies on user complaints
• Fines over $40,000 per violation

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

The GDPR is a law that protects the data and privacy of people who live in the European Union.

User Data Rights

• Right to access
• Right to rectify
• Right to erase
• Right to data portability
• Additional data protections 

Who manages and oversees?

European Union

Who must comply?

Anyone who works with the personal data of people in the EU

How is it enforced?

• Supervisory authority in each EU country
• Fines up to 4% of annual revenue

 There are some website platforms that include privacy policies that you can customize to suit your needs. If the platform you use doesn't you can google it there are some free tools online or you can pay to have one custom made for your business.