A coalition of privacy rights groups, including the Electronic Frontier Foundation and the Maryland Consumer Protection Alliance, submitted a formal request to the state’s General Assembly demanding a comprehensive investigation into the operations of data brokers that collect, aggregate, and sell personal information of Maryland residents. The advocates cite recent revelations that brokers have sold sensitive data—such as health records, financial details, and location histories—to marketing firms without consumer consent. They are calling for stricter transparency requirements, the right for individuals to opt‑out of data sales, and hefty penalties for non‑compliant companies. Maryland’s Attorney General’s office has indicated it will review the request and consider drafting legislation to strengthen data‑privacy protections.
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