Practice Area: Privacy Policies
On March 24, 2025, genetic testing giant 23andMe filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy following declining demand and a major 2023 data breach that exposed the personal information of 7 million users. With over 15 million customers’ genetic data at stake, privacy experts warn of potential risks, including the sale or misuse of this sensitive information during bankruptcy proceedings. While the company assures that privacy will remain a priority, its policies allow data to be sold as an asset, raising concerns about use by future buyers.
Practice Area: Influencer Marketing
A recent controversy highlights the legal risks of undisclosed financial relationships in influencer marketing. Social media influencers reportedly received payments to oppose proposed restrictions on using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for sugary drinks. These posts lacked proper disclosures about their financial ties, potentially violating Federal Trade Commission (FTC) guidelines. This case serves as a reminder that transparency is critical in influencer advocacy campaigns to avoid legal repercussions and maintain public trust.
Practice Area: Terms and Conditions
The Fourth Circuit’s decision in Dhruva v. CuriosityStream, Inc. emphasizes the importance of clear and conspicuous notice when forming enforceable online agreements, such as terms and conditions or arbitration clauses. The ruling provides valuable guidance for businesses to ensure their digital contracts meet legal standards for consent. Companies should review their website interfaces to ensure compliance with this evolving area of law.
Practice Area: Privacy Compliance
The California Privacy Protection Agency (CPPA) recently fined Honda $632,500 for violating the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), marking one of the agency’s first major enforcement actions. This case highlights the CPPA’s focus on ensuring businesses handle consumer data and privacy rights. Companies should prioritize compliance with CCPA requirements to avoid penalties and protect consumer trust.
Practice Area: Sweepstakes
The rise of social gaming casinos has sparked increasing regulatory scrutiny in the U.S. These platforms often operate in a gray area between gaming and gambling laws, creating significant compliance challenges. Operators must stay informed about state and federal regulations to mitigate legal risks while participating in this rapidly growing industry.
Practice Area: Privacy Compliance
As the U.S. privacy landscape continues to evolve, businesses face increasing complexity with the implementation of new state privacy laws in 2025. Each comprehensive state privacy law has both similar as well as unique requirements, such as data mapping, privacy impact assessments, and opt-out provisions for targeted advertising. These laws grant consumers privacy rights like data access, correction, deletion, and portability while imposing stricter obligations on companies handling sensitive data. It is critical to stay ahead of compliance challenges and implement strategies for navigating and complying in a highly dynamic privacy compliance environment.
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