AG Ken Paxton Spearheads Nationwide Data Privacy Campaign, Secures Billion-Dollar Settlements with Big Tech

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is leading the charge against what he perceives as threats to data privacy and security emanating from Big Tech, foreign entities, and various malfeasances. In a battle for the digital rights of citizens, Paxton’s office has reportedly taken robust action to safeguard Texans’ personal information, as noted in an official statement from the Texas Attorney General’s Office. According to the announcement, Paxton has not only undertaken legal action against several prominent technology companies but also secured significant settlements in the process.

Over the last year, the Attorney General’s Privacy and Tech Team initiated investigations into over 200 companies, ranging from data brokers to car manufacturers and, notably, to social media platforms. According to the statement made by the Texas Attorney General’s Office, their efforts have led to Texas being “the watchdog for the nation’s privacy rights and freedoms.” Among Paxton’s assertions is a record-setting $1.4 billion settlement with Meta, and a $1.375 billion settlement with Google, both concerning the alleged illegal use of personal data. The Texas AG’s office appears to fiercely tackle each case with a commitment to not only penalize but also set a precedent in the ongoing digital privacy debate.

Paxton’s office also claims to be at the forefront of legislation enforcement, employing the comprehensive legal framework of Texas, including the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act and other related laws. Their momentum is seemingly maintained through a series of high-profile lawsuits against various entities, including General Motors and TikTok, and proactive investigative actions against companies such as Character.AI, Reddit, and Instagram regarding their data practices around children’s safety. Additionally, Paxton’s team has addressed security concerns related to a Chinese AI firm allegedly in violation of state privacy laws.

In an effort to encourage public participation in guarding their own digital privacy, the Texas Attorney General’s Office launched a consumer portal in July 2024, which has already received upwards of 2,000 complaints. Paxton stated, “I will continue doing all I can to protect Texans from new threats to their personal data and digital security,” as per a report by the Attorney General’s Office.