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In a landmark move aimed at combating cybercrime and protecting residents' privacy, North Carolina lawmakers have passed a new communications law that sets stricter regulations on the state's telecommunications industry. The legislation, which was signed into law on September 29, 2025, makes it mandatory for telecommunications companies to implement stronger cybersecurity measures and adhere to strict data protection protocols.The new law comes in response to a rising number of cyberattacks targeting North Carolina residents and businesses, which have caused significant financial losses and compromised sensitive personal information. By tightening regulations on the telecommunications industry, lawmakers hope to prevent future cyber incidents and safeguard the state's digital infrastructure.One of the key provisions of the communications law is the requirement for telecommunications companies to encrypt all communications data transmitted through their networks. This measure aims to prevent hackers from intercepting and accessing sensitive information, such as personal emails, financial transactions, and private messages. Companies failing to comply with the encryption mandate could face hefty fines and penalties.Additionally, the law mandates that telecommunications companies must report any cybersecurity incidents or data breaches to state authorities within a specified timeframe. This requirement aims to ensure prompt response to cyber threats and prevent the widespread dissemination of sensitive information.Furthermore, the communications law includes provisions that protect consumers' privacy rights by restricting the collection and sharing of personal data by telecommunications companies. Under the new regulations, companies will be required to obtain explicit consent from users before collecting their personal information and must provide clear information on how that data will be used and shared.The passage of the communications law has been met with widespread support from cybersecurity experts, consumer advocates, and state officials who view it as a crucial step towards strengthening North Carolina's cybersecurity defenses and protecting residents from online threats. The law is expected to serve as a model for other states grappling with similar cybersecurity challenges and could potentially influence federal legislation on communications and cybersecurity in the future.