CA Department of Justice Reaches $2.75 Million Agreement with Disney for Data Sharing

A judge has approved a settlement in which Disney will pay $2.75 million to resolve allegations regarding the mishandling of consumers’ personal data. This agreement not only involves a hefty fine but also requires Disney to implement solid methods that prevent them from selling or sharing consumers’ information without their consent.

California’s Attorney General Rob Bonta emphasized the importance of consumers’ right to opt-out of data sharing without jumping through hoops. The settlement came after California authorities investigated multiple streaming services to ensure compliance with data privacy laws.

The investigation found gaps in Disney’s opt-out processes that led to continued sharing and selling of consumer data. Disney’s methods for handling opt-out requests were limited to specific services and devices, leaving users’ data exposed through third-party advertisers, even though they used the webform to opt-out.

Disney has also been criticized for not providing an in-app opt-out method in many of its streaming apps, redirecting users to their website instead. This left consumers without a clear path to prevent Disney from sharing their data.

The settlement marks a significant leap in protecting consumers’ privacy rights, ensuring that companies like Disney uphold the highest standards in data privacy practices. This case highlights the importance of transparent and accessible methods for consumers to opt-out of data sharing practices.