How do I make my small business website compliant with the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA/CPRA)?

To make your website compliant with California privacy law, you must determine if the law applies to you, inform consumers about your data practices, and provide them with methods to exercise their privacy rights. Here are the steps to begin CCPA/CPRA compliance for your website: Step 1: Determine if the Law Applies to Your Business First, confirm if your for-profit business meets at least one of these thresholds: (1) has annual gross revenue over $25 million; (2) buys, sells, or shares the personal information of 100,000 or more California consumers or households annually; or (3) derives 50% or more of its annual revenue from selling or sharing consumers’ personal information. If you don't meet any of these, the CCPA/CPRA likely does not apply. Step 2: Map Your Company's Data Conduct an inventory to understand what personal information you collect from consumers (e.g., names, IP addresses, cookies, email addresses). Document why you collect it, how long you keep it, and whether you disclose, sell, or "share" it with third parties. "Sharing" specifically refers to disclosing data for cross-context behavioral advertising. Step 3: Update Your Website Privacy Policy Your privacy policy must be updated to include specific CCPA/CPRA disclosures. This includes listing the categories of personal information you collect and the purposes for its use. You must also explain consumers' rights, such as the Right to Know, Right to Delete, and Right to Correct their information. Step 4: Add Required Website Links Your website homepage must feature a clear and conspicuous link titled "Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information." You may also need a "Limit the Use of My Sensitive Personal Information" link if you collect and use sensitive data (like geolocation or health information) for purposes beyond providing your basic service. Step 5: Create a Process to Fulfill Consumer Requests You must provide at least two methods for consumers to submit privacy requests. Common methods include an interactive web form on your website and a toll-free telephone number. You must have a process in place to verify the identity of the person making the request and respond within 45 days. Important considerations: The CCPA/CPRA now applies to data collected from your California-based employees and business-to-business contacts, not just customers. You must also have reasonable security measures in place to protect the data you collect. Note: Penalties for non-compliance are significant, reaching up to $7,500 per intentional violation. This law is complex, and enforcement is handled by the California Privacy Protection Agency (CPPA). This is general information and does not constitute legal advice. For complex situations or a full compliance audit, consult with a qualified California attorney specializing in privacy law.