Privacyrights.org was established in response to the significant data breach at Choicepoint Incorporated in 2005. Choicepoint, a consumer data broker, That specialized in selling consumer information to businesses, including names, Social Security numbers, birth dates, employment details, and credit histories. Following the 2005 breach, the company faced substantial penalties, including $10 million in civil fines and $5 million in consumer redress.
From a research perspective, a comprehensive approach would involve multi-method research. Researchers could initiate their investigation with archival research, which entails gathering historical statistics from prior data breaches. Additionally, they could consider conducting interviews with individuals affected by past breaches, although researchers would have to acknowledge the potential reluctance of individuals to admit their mistakes related to cybersecurity.