Washington data breaches rose 500% in 2021

Washington state experienced a growth in data breaches across the board in 2021, according to the newly released 2021 Data Breach Report from the attorney general's office. Organizations sent out 6.3 million data breach notices to individuals across the state, topping 2018's high of 3.5 million. There was a 500% increase in data breaches reported to the attorney general's office, going from 60 in 2020 to 280 in 2021. The report also includes data-protective practices for consumers and recommendations for policymakers. Editor's note: IAPP Staff Writer Jennifer Bryant covered the Washington Privacy Act when it was in legislation.