Can I collect IP addresses from participants in Georgia? What are the requirements?

Based on the provided context documents, it is unclear what type of participants you are referring to and for what purpose you want to collect their IP addresses. However, in general, collecting personal information, including IP addresses, is subject to privacy laws and regulations.

Privacy Laws in Georgia

Georgia has enacted several laws that regulate the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information. One such law is the Georgia Personal Identity Protection Act (GPIPA), which requires entities that collect personal information to implement reasonable security measures to protect that information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure ^[3.1].

Collection of IP Addresses

The collection of IP addresses may be subject to the GPIPA and other privacy laws. Under GPIPA, personal information is defined as “an individual’s first name or first initial and last name in combination with any one or more of the following data elements, when either the name or the data elements are not encrypted: (A) Social security number; (B) driver’s license number or state identification card number issued instead of a driver’s license number; (C) account number, credit card number, or debit card number, in combination with any required security code, access code, or password that would permit access to an individual’s financial account; (D) account number, credit card number, or debit card number, if that number alone would permit access to an individual’s financial account; (E) any information regarding an individual’s medical history, mental or physical condition, or medical treatment or diagnosis by a health care professional; (F) an individual’s health insurance policy number or subscriber identification number and any unique identifier used by a health insurer to identify the individual; (G) user name or email address, in combination with a password or security question and answer that would permit access to an online account; or (H) any information regarding an individual’s race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or disability, including genetic information and unique biometric data” ^[3.1].

If the IP address is linked to any of the above data elements, then it is considered personal information and subject to the requirements of GPIPA.

Georgia Broadband Deployment Initiative

It is important to note that the Georgia Broadband Deployment Initiative provides funding awards to expand broadband services to unserved areas of the state ^[2.1][2.2]. The initiative requires partnerships between eligible applicants and qualified broadband services providers ^[2.1]. The department considers the effectiveness of the partnership between an eligible applicant and a qualified broadband services provider in the funding awards process ^[2.1].

Conclusion

Without more information about the purpose and context of collecting IP addresses, it is difficult to provide a definitive answer. However, it is important to be aware of the privacy laws and regulations that may apply to the collection of personal information, including IP addresses. It is recommended that you consult with a legal professional to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

^[2.1]: GACO 50-40-81 ^[3.1]: GACO 46-5-214 ^[2.2]: GACO 50-40-80

Source(s):

• [2.1] Development of Georgia Broadband Deployment Initiative; funding awards; considerations; priorities; compliance with federal provisions.
• [3.1] Action in event of telephone record security breach; notification to Georgia residents; law enforcement exception; violations shall be unfair or deceptive practice in consumer transactions.
• [2.2] Legislative findings.

Jurisdiction

Georgia, Georgia

• Privacy