Iowa Cybersecurity Laws You Should Know (2025)

Cybersecurity threats continue to increase across every industry, and Iowa businesses are not exempt. From small startups to major manufacturers, every organization must understand and comply with Iowa cybersecurity laws to protect sensitive data, reduce risk, and avoid costly penalties. Below, we’ll outline the most important cybersecurity laws affecting Iowa businesses and how to stay compliant in 2025.

Iowa Cybersecurity Laws

Iowa Data Breach Notification Law (Iowa Code § 715C.1–715C.2)

The Iowa Data Breach Notification Law requires businesses to notify affected individuals without unreasonable delay, but no later than 45 days after determining that a data breach involving personal information has occurred. If a breach impacts more than 500 residents, businesses must also notify the Iowa Attorney General.

Notifications must include the nature of the breach, the types of information affected, and contact details for consumer protection agencies.

Iowa Consumer Protection Act (Iowa Code § 714.16)

The Iowa Consumer Protection Act prohibits deceptive or unfair business practices, including misrepresenting cybersecurity measures or failing to adequately protect customer data. The Attorney General has the authority to investigate and impose penalties for violations.

Iowa Computer Crimes Law (Iowa Code § 716A.1 et seq.)

This statute makes it illegal to access, alter, or damage computer systems without authorization. It criminalizes hacking, phishing, malware attacks, and data theft. Offenses can result in fines or imprisonment, depending on the severity of the crime.

Iowa Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (Iowa Code § 554D.101 et seq.)

This law validates electronic records and digital signatures, ensuring they have the same legal standing as paper documents. It also requires businesses to maintain the confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity of electronic transactions.

Federal and Industry-Specific Cybersecurity Regulations That Affect Iowa Businesses

Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS)

PCI DSS applies to all Iowa businesses that process or store credit card transactions. Compliance requires encryption, access restrictions, and continuous monitoring to prevent data breaches.

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

HIPAA applies to Iowa healthcare organizations and business associates that handle personal health information (PHI). It mandates technical, physical, and administrative safeguards to secure patient data.

Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA)

Financial institutions in Iowa must comply with GLBA, which requires secure management of customer financial data and transparent privacy practices.

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

GDPR applies to Iowa companies that collect or process data from EU citizens. It requires explicit consent, the right to deletion, and clear disclosure of how personal data is used.

Cybersecurity Requirements for Financial Services Companies (NYDFS 23 NYCRR 500)

Iowa financial institutions operating in New York must comply with NYDFS cybersecurity standards, which include multifactor authentication, encryption, and 72-hour breach reporting.

NIST Cybersecurity Framework

The NIST Cybersecurity Framework is widely used by Iowa organizations in energy, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors. It provides best practices for identifying, protecting, detecting, responding to, and recovering from cyber incidents.

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Act

The FTC Act requires Iowa businesses to use reasonable data protection measures. Companies that misrepresent their security practices or fail to safeguard customer information can face federal penalties.

Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)

If your Iowa business collects information from children under 13, COPPA applies. It mandates verified parental consent and restricts how children’s data can be collected, shared, or stored.

Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX)

Publicly traded companies in Iowa must comply with SOX, which enforces strict internal controls and protects against fraudulent financial activity or data manipulation.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

FERPA protects student educational records for Iowa schools and related organizations. It requires parental or student consent before releasing identifiable information.

Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act (CIRCIA)

CIRCIA mandates that Iowa’s critical infrastructure entities report significant cyber incidents to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) within 72 hours of discovery.

CAN-SPAM Act

The CAN-SPAM Act regulates commercial emails nationwide, requiring accurate sender information, truthful subject lines, and easy opt-out mechanisms.

Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS)

Iowa defense contractors must comply with DFARS cybersecurity standards aligned with NIST SP 800-171, which protect controlled unclassified information.

Section 5 of the FTC Act (Unfair or Deceptive Practices)

Section 5 prohibits unfair or deceptive data security practices, holding Iowa businesses accountable for protecting customer information and being transparent about cybersecurity efforts.

More Iowa Cybersecurity Laws to Be Aware Of

The Iowa Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) plays a major role in improving cybersecurity readiness across the state. It develops policies for state agencies and collaborates with private-sector businesses to promote cybersecurity awareness and resilience.

In addition, Iowa has participated in nationwide cyber initiatives that encourage adoption of frameworks like NIST and CIS Controls. Businesses are strongly advised to maintain written cybersecurity programs, perform risk assessments, and train employees to identify phishing and social engineering threats.

Conclusion

Staying compliant with Iowa cybersecurity laws is critical for protecting sensitive information and preventing costly data breaches. By following both state and federal regulations — and adopting recognized cybersecurity frameworks, businesses can demonstrate due diligence and strengthen their defenses against evolving threats.

If your organization needs help maintaining cybersecurity compliance in Iowa, we offer comprehensive services to help you safeguard data and meet all regulatory requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Iowa Cybersecurity Laws

1. What is Iowa’s main cybersecurity law?
   The Iowa Data Breach Notification Law (Iowa Code § 715C.1) is the state’s primary cybersecurity statute, requiring businesses to notify individuals within 45 days of a confirmed breach.
2. Who enforces cybersecurity laws in Iowa?
   The Iowa Attorney General’s Office enforces breach notification and consumer protection laws, including actions against deceptive or negligent data practices.
3. Does Iowa require specific cybersecurity standards?
   No specific standard is mandated, but following frameworks like NIST or ISO 27001 helps businesses demonstrate reasonable data protection practices.
4. Do small businesses need to comply with Iowa cybersecurity laws?
   Yes. Any business that collects or stores personal data belonging to Iowa residents must follow data breach notification and protection laws, regardless of size.
5. How quickly must a business report a breach in Iowa?
   Within 45 days after discovering that personal information was accessed or acquired by an unauthorized individual.

Read More Cybersecurity Laws by State:

Florida Cybersecurity Laws You Should Know (2025)

Ohio Cybersecurity Laws You Should Know (2025)

Virginia Cybersecurity Laws You Should Know (2025)

North Carolina Cybersecurity Laws You Should Know (2025)

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Readers should consult qualified legal counsel for advice specific to their organization or situation.