Massachusetts Attorney General (AG) Maura Healey announced the creation of a Data Privacy and Security Division, focusing on protecting consumers from privacy and security breaches and threats. AG Healey named Sara Cable as the chief of the new division. Cable has served as the director of Data Privacy and Security within the AG’s Consumer Protection Division since 2016.

The new Data Privacy and Security Division will focus on protecting consumers’ data privacy, empowering consumers in the digital economy and promoting equal and open access to the internet. The creation of the division signals that the AG’s office is placing a higher priority on privacy and security, as well as investigating and enforcing the Massachusetts Consumer Protection Act and Data Breach Law.

“The Data Privacy and Security Division will build on our office’s commitment to empowering Massachusetts consumers in the digital economy, ensuring that companies are protecting personal data, and promoting equal and open access to the internet,” said AG Healey. “Sara has spearheaded these efforts within our office for years and we are excited to have her leading this new division.”

The creation of the Data Privacy and Security Division is a clear indication that the AG’s office is serious about the enforcement of privacy laws as well as protecting equal access to the internet. Companies should expect that creation of the new division will result in more aggressive enforcement of the state’s laws, and companies should update their compliance efforts accordingly.