*By Mike Teich*
A sweeping data privacy bill has been approved in California, but it may be too late for internet users to protect their information, said former National Counterterrorism Center officer Dave White.
"You have to consider yourself compromised," he said. "You’ve already given your data away."
Experts are calling it the nation's most far-reaching law to give consumers more control over their personal data. Under the law, customers can request what personal data companies have collected and what third parties have received it.
The passing of the historical bill didn't come without criticism. The ACLU of Northern California said the legislation falls "woefully short" in defending individuals' rights.
"It's a great first step," White said. However, “it doesn’t go far enough."
Companies that collect user data, from Amazon to Microsoft to Uber, lobbied aggressively against the law, pouring millions into a [opposition campaigns](https://www.theverge.com/2018/6/15/17468292/amazon-microsoft-uber-california-consumer-privacy-act).
But consumer advocates called it a milestone victory. "Today was a [huge win](http://money.cnn.com/2018/06/28/technology/california-consumer-privacy-act/index.html) and gives consumer privacy advocates a blueprint for success," James P. Steyer, CEO and founder of Common Sense Media. "We look forward to working together with lawmakers across the nation to ensure robust data privacy protections for all Americans."
For full interview, [click here](https://cheddar.com/videos/california-passes-historic-privacy-bill).
With the help of Amazon's Alexa, Smart Kitchen appliances are getting smarter. Amazon announced expanded abilities for its voice assistant to control kitchen appliances and made an investment in June. Matt Van Horn, Co-Founder & CEO of June, the maker of smart ovens, was with us to share how the investment will help the company.
Facebook, Twitter and Youtube testify on Capitol Hill about combating terror. 21 states challenge the Net Neutrality repeal. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies continue to fall. Steve Bannon faces two subpoenas over the Russia investigation. Elon Musk announces his new $5 million initiative to bring healthy food and gardens to city kids. Karamo Brown stars as the ‘culture guy' of the Fab 5 in the Netflix reboot, “Queer Eye." Online sharing community Imgur is on a mission to provide an uplifting user experience, and differentiate itself from other social platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
Bitcoin extended its selloff Wednesday, with prices of the cryptocurrency falling below $10,000 on some exchanges. Bitcoin has lost nearly half its value from its record high last month. James Altucher, Managing Director at Formula Capital, was with us to discuss whether we will see another rally in the market.
As social media becomes increasingly prevalent in our daily lives, companies are finding that it is critical to create relevant content that maintains a humanized message. Former MLB All-Star Shawn Green, Co-Founder and Chairman of Greenfly, and Daniel Kirschner, Co-Founder & CEO of Greenfly, joined us to share how they are helping brands create engaging digital content.
Real Estate may have an intimidating price tag that keeps many from investing, but crowdfunding platforms are making the asset class more approachable to investors with smaller budgets. Craig Cecilio, CEO & Founder of Diversyfund, an online real estate crowdfunding platform, was with us to explain how his platform is appealing to investors.
Kimbal Musk is on a mission to bring clean and good food to kids and families across the country. That is why he joins Cheddar to make some big announcement about his non-profit.
Online sharing community Imgur is on a mission to provide an uplifting user experience, and differentiate itself from other social platforms like Facebook and Instagram. The company's COO Roy Sehgal explains how Imgur is rolling out new products to its user base.
For 2018 you may want to focus on your job and pushing your career forward. John Hall, co-founder and CEO of Influence & Co., gives tips on how to build your personal brand in the new year.
Fuze is a platform that incorporates all communication means, into one platform. On Fuze you can video chat, message, and connect in whichever way is best for you and your company.
When it comes to retail, brands and companies are constantly searching for a competitive edge. Perch Interactive claims to have a solution. The tech company uses augmented reality to spruce up the in-store shopping experience.
Expectations of the store experience have changed. Bridging the gap between the digital and physical space is more important than ever says Trevor Sumner, CEO of Perch Interactive.
