New Executive Order Targets Protection of Americans’ Data from Foreign Threats

On February 28, the White House issued an Executive Order (EO) titled “Preventing Access to Americans’ Bulk Sensitive Personal Data and United States Government-Related Data by Countries of Concern.” This EO seeks to safeguard the privacy of American citizens and the integrity of government data against foreign exploitation.

Under this guidance, the Attorney General is mandated to formulate regulations that will restrict transactions involving sensitive American data and government-related information, particularly when transactions involve foreign countries or nationals identified as posing security threats. This regulatory framework is aimed at curbing the potential for adversaries to exploit personal and governmental data for nefarious purposes.

In an effort to ensure a well-rounded approach to this critical issue, the National Security Division has announced an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM). This announcement is a call to the public for comments on various aspects of implementing the Executive Order.

Stakeholders, ranging from private citizens to corporations, are encouraged to contribute their perspectives and insights on how best to protect sensitive personal and government data from foreign threats.

Interested parties are invited to submit their comments by April 19, 2024. Submissions can be made through the Federal eRulemaking Portal here.