FTC Order Will Ban Avast from Selling Browsing Data for Advertising Purposes, Require It to Pay $16.5 Million Over Charges the Firm Sold Browsing Data After Claiming Its Products Would Block Online Tracking

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The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has taken action against Avast, a software company, for violating consumer protection laws. Avast was accused of selling sensitive personal data of its users to third-party companies without their consent, misrepresenting how it uses the data, and failing to properly secure it. The FTC alleged that Avast's data collection and sales practices violated the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA). As a result, Avast has agreed to pay a $16.5 million penalty and to implement a comprehensive privacy program to ensure the protection of consumer data. The settlement also prohibits Avast from misrepresenting its data collection and sales practices, and requires the company to obtain affirmative express consent from consumers before selling or licensing their data.

Summary in 150 words:

The FTC has taken action against Avast for violating consumer protection laws. Avast was accused of selling sensitive personal data without consent, misrepresenting data use, and failing to secure it. The FTC alleged violation of FCRA and GLBA. Avast has agreed to pay $16.5 million and implement a comprehensive privacy program. The settlement prohibits misrepresentation and requires affirmative consent.