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On January 31, 2026, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf signed into law a new bill aimed at strengthening online privacy protections for residents of the state. The Internet Privacy Protection Act, also known as IPPA, is designed to give Pennsylvanians more control over their personal data and information when using the internet.Under the new law, internet service providers (ISPs) are required to obtain explicit consent from customers before collecting or selling their personal data. This includes information such as browsing history, app usage, and location data. ISPs must also provide customers with the option to opt out of having their data collected or sold.In addition, the IPPA includes provisions to protect minors online. ISPs are prohibited from collecting personal information from anyone under the age of 18 without parental consent. The law also requires websites and online services to obtain parental consent before collecting personal information from minors.Governor Wolf emphasized the importance of online privacy in the digital age, stating, "With the constant evolution of technology, it is crucial that we take proactive measures to protect the privacy and security of Pennsylvanians online. The Internet Privacy Protection Act will give our residents greater control over their personal information and ensure that their privacy rights are respected."The passage of the IPPA comes amid growing concerns about data privacy and security in the online realm. With data breaches and cyberattacks becoming increasingly common, many states have taken steps to enact laws to safeguard personal information online. Pennsylvania joins a handful of states that have passed comprehensive internet privacy legislation.The IPPA will go into effect on July 1, 2026, giving ISPs and online services time to comply with the new regulations. Violations of the law could result in penalties and fines for non-compliant organizations.Overall, the Internet Privacy Protection Act represents a significant step forward in protecting the privacy rights of Pennsylvanians and ensuring that their personal information is not exploited for profit. As technology continues to advance, it is imperative that laws and regulations keep pace to safeguard individuals' data and privacy in the online world.