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Broadcast – Strict Liability

When my kids’ rooms are a mess, we have a policy, which in legal terms is “strict liability.” It doesn’t matter who did it. It’s their responsibility to clean it up.

But “strict liability” doesn’t apply when a hacker steals financial information, like credit card numbers,from Target, Michael’s or PF Chang’s. If the store didn’t invest in the necessary software to prevent the breach, their customers pay the price.

Here’s something you didn’t know: Every minute 19 people, just like you, are victims of identity theft. The Federal Trade Commission says identity theft is the fastest growing crime in America.

This is one area where federal protection is needed. Retailers should be liable for any damages resulting from theft of their data. If my kids are subject to “strict liability,” companies like Home Depot or Staples should be held to the same standard for cleaning up their mess.