What is the primary purpose of a security breach notification law?

The primary purpose of a security breach notification law is to ensure that organizations inform individuals when their personal information has been compromised. This requirement is driven by the need to protect individuals from potential harm that may arise from the unauthorized access or misuse of their sensitive data. The law fosters transparency, enabling affected individuals to take precautionary actions, such as monitoring their accounts or taking steps to protect their identity, which ultimately enhances consumer trust.

While regulations for proper encryption methods, improvements to security policies, and mandates for regular security audits all contribute to an organization’s overall security strategy, they do not focus specifically on the immediate action required in response to a data breach. Instead, the notification law directly addresses the consequences of a breach and prioritizes the welfare of individuals whose data has been affected.