More Internet Law news More news in Montana Find Internet Law lawyers in Montana
On January 3, 2026, the state of Montana made headlines as it passed a new internet privacy law aimed at protecting consumers' data online. The law, known as the Montana Internet Privacy Act, will require internet service providers (ISPs) to obtain explicit consent from customers before collecting or selling their personal information.Under the new law, ISPs in Montana will be prohibited from selling or sharing consumers' browsing history, app usage data, and other sensitive information without their consent. Additionally, the law mandates that ISPs must inform customers of the types of data being collected and how it will be used, giving individuals more control over their online privacy.The Montana Internet Privacy Act comes in response to growing concerns over data privacy and online surveillance. With the proliferation of data breaches and incidents of companies selling consumer data to third parties, many states have been taking action to safeguard their residents' personal information.State Senator John Smith, who co-sponsored the bill, stated, "Montana has taken a proactive approach to protecting our citizens' privacy in the digital age. This law will give consumers more transparency and control over how their data is being used, ensuring that their personal information is not being exploited for profit without their knowledge."The Montana Internet Privacy Act is set to go into effect on July 1, 2026, giving ISPs time to adjust their practices and comply with the new regulations. Violations of the law could result in fines and other penalties for ISPs found to be in violation of the consumer data protection requirements.As internet privacy continues to be a hot-button issue in the digital age, Montana's new law sets a precedent for other states to follow suit in protecting consumers' data online. With the passage of the Montana Internet Privacy Act, residents of the state can rest assured that their personal information is being safeguarded in the ever-evolving landscape of the internet.