Payment card security, consumer data protection, and e-commerce compliance for Massachusetts retailers.
Massachusetts retail sector ranges from traditional brick-and-mortar stores to e-commerce platforms and omnichannel retailers. With major retail centers in Boston, Cambridge, and throughout the state, retailers must protect customer payment information and personal data. The shift to online shopping has increased the importance of PCI DSS compliance and data privacy regulations.
All companies in Massachusetts, including those in the retail & e-commerce sector, must comply with Massachusetts data security and privacy regulations:
Pro Tip: Start with 201 CMR 17.00 - Massachusetts' foundational data security regulation that applies to all businesses handling personal information of Massachusetts residents.
These frameworks are legally required for retail & e-commerce companies. Non-compliance can result in significant penalties, fines, and legal consequences.
Standards for the Protection of Personal Information of Residents of the Commonwealth
Massachusetts comprehensive data security regulation requiring businesses to protect personal information of Massachusetts residents.
Massachusetts General Law Chapter 93H - Notification of Security Breaches
Massachusetts law requiring notification of security breaches involving personal information.
Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard Version 4.0.1
Global security standard providing baseline technical and operational requirements to protect payment card account data, mandated by payment card brands (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover, JCB) through contractual agreements.
While not legally mandatory, these frameworks represent industry best practices for retail & e-commerce companies. Implementing these can improve security posture, build customer trust, and provide competitive advantages.
An Act establishing the Massachusetts data privacy act
Pending Massachusetts comprehensive privacy law establishing consumer rights to know, access, correct, delete, and opt-out of data sales. Includes complete ban on sale of sensitive data and minors data.
National Institute of Standards and Technology Cybersecurity Framework Version 2.0
Voluntary framework providing guidance for organizations to manage and reduce cybersecurity risk through a common language and systematic approach.
California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 (as amended by California Privacy Rights Act of 2020)
California comprehensive privacy law establishing consumer rights to know, delete, correct, opt-out, and limit use of personal information. CPRA amendments (effective 2023) added right to correct, limit sensitive data, and automated decision-making protections.
Additional frameworks that may apply depending on your specific business operations, client requirements, or industry partnerships.
Follow this recommended sequence to achieve compliance as a Massachusetts retail & e-commerce company.
Begin with 201 CMR 17.00 (data security) and M.G.L. c. 93H (breach notification). These apply to all Massachusetts businesses and form the foundation of your compliance program. Prepare for MDPA compliance (effective 2025).
Address all mandatory frameworks for the retail & e-commerce sector. These are non-negotiable legal requirements with enforcement and penalties.
Strengthen your security posture with recommended frameworks. While not mandatory, these can differentiate your company, win customer trust, and may become requirements for certain contracts or partnerships.
Compliance is not a one-time project. Maintain ongoing monitoring, conduct regular assessments, update policies as regulations change, and train employees continuously. Use MyRHC to track your compliance status and stay informed of regulatory updates.
Get started with MyRHCMyRHC provides comprehensive tools and guidance for Massachusetts retail & e-commerce companies to navigate complex compliance requirements.