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FTC Warns 13 Data Brokers Over PADFAA Violations

13 data brokersFebruary 9, 2026Federal Trade Commission

Summary

The FTC issued warning letters to 13 data brokers reminding them of their obligations under the Protecting Americans' Data from Foreign Adversaries Act (PADFAA), which bans the sale or disclosure of sensitive personal data to foreign adversaries like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. The letters cite instances where recipients offered data on Armed Forces members, which is protected under PADFAA. Non-compliance could result in civil penalties up to $53,088 per violation.

Remedy

The data brokers are instructed to conduct a comprehensive review of their business practices to ensure compliance with PADFAA.

Laws Cited

Protecting Americans' Data from Foreign Adversaries Act of 2024

Violation Types

Entity Details

Entity

13 data brokers

Also known as: Data Brokers

Industry

Data Broker

Official Sources

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