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On December 3, 2025, Maryland made headlines in the world of internet law by passing a new legislation aimed at protecting individuals' online privacy. The Maryland Online Privacy Protection Act, known as MOPPA, requires internet service providers and online platforms to obtain explicit consent from users before collecting or sharing their personal information.Under this new law, internet companies operating in Maryland must provide clear and easily accessible privacy policies that outline what data is being collected, how it will be used, and with whom it will be shared. In addition, users must be given the option to opt-out of having their data collected or shared with third parties.Maryland Governor, Jane Smith, praised the legislation, stating that "In today's digital age, it is more important than ever to protect individuals' online privacy. The Maryland Online Privacy Protection Act will provide residents with greater control over their personal information and ensure that their data is being handled responsibly."The passage of MOPPA comes at a time when concerns about online privacy and data security are at an all-time high. Recent high-profile data breaches and scandals have brought attention to the ways in which large corporations and internet companies handle users' personal information. This new law aims to address these concerns and give Maryland residents more control over their online data.Internet companies operating in Maryland have until January 1, 2026, to comply with the new regulations. Failure to do so could result in fines and penalties for non-compliance. The Maryland Attorney General's office will be responsible for enforcing the new law and investigating any potential violations.Overall, the Maryland Online Privacy Protection Act represents a significant step forward in protecting individuals' online privacy and data security. It is hoped that other states will follow suit and implement similar measures to safeguard users' personal information in the digital age.