Colorado Privacy Act

US StatePrivacy2023
ByDecipherU Editorial

The Colorado Privacy Act protects consumers' cybersecurity and privacy rights, including opt-out of targeted advertising and profiling. Effective July 2023, it is notable for requiring a universal opt-out mechanism, meaning businesses must honor browser-based privacy signals like Global Privacy Control (GPC). The Colorado AG has exclusive enforcement authority.

Quick Reference

EnactedJuly 1, 2023
Enforcement BodyColorado Attorney General, District Attorneys
PenaltiesUp to $20,000 per violation under the Colorado Consumer Protection Act; 60-day cure period (sunsets January 2025)
Applicable ToControllers processing data of 100,000+ Colorado consumers, or 25,000+ consumers with revenue from data sales

Key Requirements

C.R.S. § 6-1-1306(1)(a)(IV)

Controllers must provide a universal opt-out mechanism and honor user-enabled opt-out signals (such as GPC)

C.R.S. § 6-1-1308(1)

Controllers must conduct data protection assessments for targeted advertising, profiling, and processing sensitive data

C.R.S. § 6-1-1305(4)

Controllers must implement reasonable security practices appropriate to the volume and nature of personal data processed

How Does CPA Affect Cybersecurity Careers?

Cybersecurity professionals must implement technical controls for universal opt-out signals. The GPC requirement means security and privacy engineers need to handle browser-level signals in web applications. GRC analysts tracking multi-state compliance must account for Colorado's unique universal opt-out mandate.

Cybersecurity Roles That Work With CPA

Related Cybersecurity Certifications

Related Cybersecurity Laws

Read the full text of CPA at the official source: https://coag.gov/resources/colorado-privacy-act/

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CPA in cybersecurity?

The Colorado Privacy Act protects consumers' cybersecurity and privacy rights, including opt-out of targeted advertising and profiling. Effective July 2023, it is notable for requiring a universal opt-out mechanism, meaning businesses must honor browser-based privacy signals like Global Privacy Control (GPC). The Colorado AG has exclusive enforcement authority.

How does CPA affect cybersecurity careers?

Cybersecurity professionals must implement technical controls for universal opt-out signals. The GPC requirement means security and privacy engineers need to handle browser-level signals in web applications. GRC analysts tracking multi-state compliance must account for Colorado's unique universal opt-out mandate.

What are the penalties for CPA non-compliance?

Up to $20,000 per violation under the Colorado Consumer Protection Act; 60-day cure period (sunsets January 2025)

Last verified: April 2026?Report an inaccuracy

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