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Can I ignore consumer requests for information or deletion in Washington? What are the requirements?
Consumer Requests for Information or Deletion in Washington
Under Washington law, businesses must comply with consumer requests for information or deletion. The Washington Privacy Act (WPA) provides consumers with the right to request that businesses disclose what personal data they have collected about them and to request that the business delete that data [2.1].
Requirements for Responding to Consumer Requests
Businesses must respond to consumer requests for information or deletion in a timely and efficient manner. The WPA provides that businesses must respond to a consumer request within 45 days of receiving the request [2.1].
When a business receives a request for information or deletion, it must provide the fullest assistance to the requester and the most timely possible action in response to the request consistent with the intent of the WPA to provide full access to personal data [2.1].
Within 10 business days of receiving a request for information or deletion, the business must acknowledge receipt of the request and provide the requester with a reasonable estimate of the date by which the business will respond to the request [2.1].
The business must then provide the requested information or delete the requested data within 45 days of receiving the request, unless the business is unable to do so due to a lawful exception [2.1].
If the business denies the request in whole or in part, the business must provide the requester with a written explanation of the basis for the denial. The requester may contest the denial by filing a complaint with the Washington Attorney General’s office [2.1].
Conclusion
In Washington, businesses must comply with consumer requests for information or deletion in a timely and efficient manner. If a business denies a request, the requester may file a complaint with the Washington Attorney General’s office. It is important to comply with the requirements of the WPA to avoid legal consequences.
[2.1] WAAC 44-06-130, Processing of public records requests—General.
Source(s):
Jurisdiction
Washington