California's Delete Act forces brokers to erase personal data starting Aug. 1: What to know

SAN FRANCISCO -- More than 300,000 Californians will soon have their personal data deleted as the state's Delete Act moves toward its first enforcement deadline on Aug. 1.

The law, authored by California Sen. Josh Becker, allows residents to request the deletion of personal information collected by data brokers. Becker said the measure is designed to give consumers more control over how their information is used.

"I wrote it to help us reclaim control of our personal information. It lets us delete our information from these shadowy data brokers that collect our most personal information. I'm talking about information about where we live, our family members, our relationship status. Every place we ever worked. This information has been bought and sold every day by these companies. The Delete Act is a one-stop shop. Sign up once. Delete your information from these folks," Becker said.

The first round of data deletions is scheduled to begin after the Aug. 1 deadline. According to Becker, nearly 600 data brokers were required to disclose their data registries and the types of information they collect.

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