The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) has been embroiled in controversy for its shady practice of selling the private information of Florida residents. This continued practice has ignited fury among citizens, as they find themselves helpless against having their data sold to unscrupulous online data brokers—potentially exposing them to cybercriminals.
First, what is a data broker: A data broker is a business that collects and sells information about individuals. They gather data from various sources, such as public records, online activities, and commercial transactions, to create detailed profiles. These profiles can include personal information like names, addresses, purchasing behaviors, and social media interactions. Data brokers then sell this information to companies, marketers, researchers, and sometimes even cybercriminals, often without the knowledge or consent of the individuals involved. This practice raises significant privacy concerns, as people have little control over how their personal data is collected, used, and shared.
While the FLHSMV hides behind Florida law, specifically Section 119.07(3)(a), which allegedly permits the commercial sale of public records, many argue that this is a blatant invasion of privacy, leaving residents vulnerable to identity theft. These data brokers, often operating in the shadows, resell the information to marketers, researchers, and even cybercriminals, causing a spike in identity theft, phishing scams, and other cybercrimes that wreak havoc on the lives of Floridians.
Despite the backlash, the FLHSMV insists it values Floridians' privacy and security, yet shows no sign of halting the sale of driver's license information. Here are the shocking details:
The Sale of Private Information: The FLHSMV sells personal details—names, addresses, dates of birth, and driver's license numbers—to data brokers who use this information for marketing, debt collection, and more. Shockingly, this is legal under the Driver's Privacy Protection Act (DPPA), but most residents are unaware of this data betrayal.
Financial Gains for the State: In 2017 alone, the FLHSMV raked in approximately $77 million from selling driver and ID cardholder information. This lucrative practice funds state programs and services, making it clear why the state clings to it.
Lack of Opt-Out Options: Florida law does not allow residents to opt out of having their personal information sold. Unlike other states with comprehensive data privacy laws, Floridians have limited means to protect their data, even with the Florida Digital Bill of Rights (FDBR) which is set to take effect on July 1, 2024.
Other States Join the Bandwagon: Florida isn't alone. States like South Carolina, Wisconsin, and California also sell driver's license information, generating millions in revenue. However, some have stricter data privacy laws that offer better protection.
How Can Florida Stop This Privacy Invasion?
Floridians who are outraged by the sale of their personal information can take action by:
Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating residents about their rights and the risks associated with this practice to push for legislative changes.
Legislative Action: Pressuring state lawmakers to introduce bills restricting the sale of private information and providing an opt-out option, similar to other states Consumer Privacy Act.
Enacting Comprehensive Data Privacy Laws: Implementing laws like the California Consumer Privacy Act to give residents control over their personal data.
Increasing Transparency and Accountability: Requiring transparency about how data is used and sold and holding companies accountable for misuse.
Enhancing Opt-Out Mechanisms: Providing easy opt-out processes to empower residents.
The FLHSMV's practice of selling residents' personal information is a serious threat to privacy and security. While the state argues it is necessary and legal, it is clear that Floridians are uncomfortable with their information being shared with third-party companies. It's high time the state takes action to protect the privacy of its residents and stops selling their personal information.
You can write or contact your Florida House of Representitive to stop this pratice and protect your personal information with the following.
To find your Florida. Representative, you can use the "Find Your Representative" tool on the Florida House of Representatives website. Here's how:
- Visit the Find Your Representative page.
- Enter your ZIP code in the search box.
- Click on the "Find Your Representative" button.
This will provide you with the name and contact information of your representative. Once you have that information, you can reach out to their office with your concerns about the DMV selling driver license information.
The selling of private information is a practice that needes to stop, or share in the revenue by allowing private citizens to optin, then being paid 50 percent of the sell price each time your personal information is sold. Imagine how much extra income we would have if companies did this.
