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On January 14, 2026, Mississippi Governor John Smith signed into law a groundbreaking bill aimed at protecting internet users' privacy in the state. The new legislation, known as the Mississippi Internet Privacy Act, is set to become one of the strictest internet privacy laws in the country.The Mississippi Internet Privacy Act requires all internet service providers (ISPs) operating in the state to obtain explicit consent from users before collecting or selling their personal data. The law also mandates that ISPs provide clear and easily accessible opt-out mechanisms for users who do not wish to have their data collected or shared.In addition to requiring opt-in consent for data collection, the Mississippi Internet Privacy Act also prohibits ISPs from engaging in certain data practices without user consent. These practices include the sale of personal information to third parties for targeted advertising purposes, as well as the tracking of users' online activities without their knowledge or consent.Governor Smith praised the passage of the new law, stating that it was necessary to protect Mississippians' privacy in the digital age. He emphasized the importance of giving internet users control over their personal data and ensuring that their information is not exploited for profit without their consent.The Mississippi Internet Privacy Act is set to go into effect on July 1, 2026, giving ISPs ample time to make the necessary changes to comply with the new regulations. Failure to comply with the law could result in hefty fines for ISPs, as well as potential legal action from the state attorney general's office.The passage of the Mississippi Internet Privacy Act represents a major victory for internet privacy advocates in the state, who have long pushed for stronger protections against data collection and sharing by ISPs. With this new law in place, Mississippians can rest assured that their online activities are better safeguarded from prying eyes and commercial exploitation.