Data Brokers Guide What are data broker registrys
Registry Guide

What are data broker
registrys?

Data broker registries are official databases that track and catalog companies collecting personal information. Think of them as public directories that help consumers understand who has their data and how to reclaim control.

Transparency

See who collects your data

Protection

Know your privacy rights

Compliance

Legal requirements met

Consumer Rights

Empowered decision making

5+
Active State Registries
600+
Registered Data Brokers
2018
First Registry Launched
Securing cybersecurity, A Businesswoman protecting personal data on laptops and virtual interfaces, Preventing Online Theft, Cybersecurity concepts.
Understanding the Basics

Registry Fundamentals

Data broker registries serve as official catalogs that document companies engaged in collecting, processing, and selling personal information.

Official Definition

A data broker registry is a government-maintained database that requires companies collecting personal information to register their business practices, data sources, and consumer rights procedures. These registries create transparency in the data economy by making previously hidden data collection practices visible to the public.

What's Included

  • Company Information

    Business name, address, contact details

  • Data Categories

    Types of personal information collected

  • Data Sources

    Where information is obtained

  • Consumer Rights

    How to opt-out or request data deletion

How It Works

1
Registration Required

Data brokers must register with state authorities

2
Public Database

Information is made publicly searchable

3
Regular Updates

Companies must update their information annually

4
Consumer Access

Public can search and contact companies

Why Registries Matter

Before registries existed, data brokers operated in complete secrecy. Now, these databases provide unprecedented transparency into the data economy.

Visibility

See who has your data

Accountability

Companies must be transparent

Empowerment

Exercise your privacy rights

Progress

Track industry changes

Real-World Example

Vermont's data broker registry, launched in 2018, was the first of its kind. When you search their database, you can find companies like Acxiom, LexisNexis, and hundreds of others that collect personal information. Each entry shows:

  • What types of data they collect (addresses, purchase history, etc.)
  • How consumers can opt-out of data collection
  • Contact information for privacy requests
Current Status

Active State Registries

Several U.S. states have implemented data broker registries, each with unique features and requirements. Here's the current landscape:

Vermont

First in the Nation • 2018

120+ Registered Brokers

Comprehensive database of data companies

Annual Registration

$100 fee, detailed disclosure requirements

Public Search Tool

Easy-to-use online database

Status: Active
Operational

California

CCPA Enhanced • 2020

200+ Registered Brokers

Largest registry in the US

CCPA Integration

Tied to consumer privacy rights

Detailed Disclosures

Comprehensive data practice reporting

Status: Active
Operational

Texas

Business Focus • 2021

80+ Registered Brokers

Growing database of companies

Business-Friendly

Streamlined registration process

Industry Partnerships

Collaboration with data industry

Status: Active
Operational

Oregon

Consumer Rights • 2022

60+ Registered Brokers

Focused on consumer protection

Strong Enforcement

Penalties for non-compliance

Privacy-First

Emphasis on consumer rights

Status: Active
Operational

States with Pending Legislation

Additional registries expected to launch soon

New York
Bill pending
Illinois
Under review
Washington
Proposed 2024
Florida
In committee
Key Takeaways

What This Means for You

For Consumers

  • Find Your Data

    Search registries to see who has your information

  • Exercise Rights

    Use contact info to request data deletion

  • Stay Informed

    Monitor new companies entering the market

For Businesses

  • Compliance Required

    Must register in applicable states

  • Transparency Builds Trust

    Clear practices improve customer relations

  • Avoid Penalties

    Non-compliance can result in fines

The Future of Data Broker Registries

As privacy concerns grow and regulations expand, expect to see more states implementing registries with enhanced features and stricter requirements.

Expansion

More states adopting registries

Integration

Cross-state data sharing

Automation

AI-powered compliance tools

Ready to Take Action?

Now that you understand data broker registries, explore our comprehensive directory to see which companies have your data and learn how to protect your privacy.