Mississippi Cybersecurity Laws You Should Know (2025)

As cyberattacks continue to rise nationwide, Mississippi businesses are increasingly vulnerable to data breaches and digital threats. Understanding Mississippi cybersecurity laws is essential for protecting your organization’s data, ensuring compliance, and maintaining customer trust. Below, we’ll highlight the most important cybersecurity laws that affect Mississippi businesses, including state-specific and federal regulations.

Mississippi Cybersecurity Laws

Mississippi Data Breach Notification Law (Miss. Code Ann. § 75-24-29)

Mississippi’s Data Breach Notification Law requires businesses to notify affected individuals without unreasonable delay when personal information is compromised. The law applies to any company or organization that owns, licenses, or maintains personal information of Mississippi residents. Notifications must include details about the breach and steps taken to reduce harm.

Mississippi Consumer Protection Act (Miss. Code Ann. § 75-24-1 et seq.)

The Mississippi Consumer Protection Act prohibits deceptive trade practices, which includes misleading consumers about data security or privacy practices. The Mississippi Attorney General enforces this act and may issue fines for companies that fail to disclose breaches or misrepresent cybersecurity measures.

Mississippi Computer Crimes Law (Miss. Code Ann. § 97-45-1 et seq.)

This law criminalizes unauthorized access to computer systems, digital trespassing, data theft, and cyber fraud. It applies to both individuals and entities, emphasizing the importance of maintaining robust access controls and network security.

Mississippi Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (Miss. Code Ann. § 75-12-1 et seq.)

The act grants legal recognition to electronic records and signatures. It requires businesses that handle electronic transactions to adopt authentication and data protection measures to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of digital records.

Federal and Industry-Specific Cybersecurity Regulations That Affect Mississippi Businesses

Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS)

PCI DSS applies to all Mississippi businesses that handle credit card transactions. It requires encryption, network monitoring, and strict access controls to prevent data breaches.

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

HIPAA applies to Mississippi healthcare providers and organizations handling personal health information (PHI). It mandates physical, administrative, and technical safeguards to protect patient data.

Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA)

Financial institutions in Mississippi must comply with GLBA, which requires secure handling of consumer financial information and transparency in data-sharing practices.

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

Although a European Union regulation, GDPR applies to Mississippi businesses that collect or process data from EU citizens. It requires explicit consent and provides individuals with the right to control their data.

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

Mississippi financial institutions operating in New York must comply with NYDFS cybersecurity standards, which include risk assessments, encryption, and 72-hour incident reporting.

NIST Cybersecurity Framework

Many Mississippi businesses use the NIST Cybersecurity Framework to manage risk and improve security posture. This framework helps organizations identify, protect, detect, respond to, and recover from cyber incidents.

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Act

The FTC Act requires Mississippi businesses to maintain reasonable data protection practices and prohibits deceptive or negligent representations about cybersecurity policies.

Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)

If your Mississippi business collects information from children under 13, COPPA applies. It requires verified parental consent and limits data sharing for minors.

Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX)

Publicly traded companies in Mississippi must comply with SOX, which enforces strict internal control and record-keeping requirements to maintain accurate financial reporting.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

FERPA protects the privacy of student records for Mississippi schools and educational service providers. Written consent is required before releasing student information.

Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act (CIRCIA)

CIRCIA requires critical infrastructure entities in Mississippi to report major cyber incidents to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) within 72 hours of discovery.

CAN-SPAM Act

The CAN-SPAM Act applies to all U.S. businesses, including those in Mississippi. It requires accurate sender information, truthful subject lines, and a clear opt-out mechanism in all marketing emails.

Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS)

Mississippi defense contractors must comply with DFARS cybersecurity requirements, which align with NIST SP 800-171 to protect controlled unclassified information.

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

Section 5 prohibits unfair or deceptive data security practices, holding Mississippi businesses accountable for protecting customer data and disclosing breaches truthfully.

More Mississippi Cybersecurity Laws to Be Aware Of

Mississippi is strengthening its cybersecurity initiatives through partnerships between the Mississippi Department of Information Technology Services (ITS) and private-sector companies. These initiatives aim to improve cybersecurity education, response coordination, and public awareness.

Businesses across sectors should perform annual cybersecurity risk assessments, maintain written security policies, and adopt frameworks such as NIST, CIS Controls, or ISO 27001 to demonstrate reasonable security practices.

Conclusion

Staying compliant with Mississippi cybersecurity laws is vital for organizations of all sizes. By understanding these laws and adopting proactive cybersecurity measures, businesses can protect data, prevent costly breaches, and maintain customer confidence.

If your company needs help navigating cybersecurity compliance in Mississippi, we provide services to strengthen your data protection strategy and align with both state and federal regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mississippi Cybersecurity Laws

1. What is Mississippi’s main cybersecurity law?
   The Mississippi Data Breach Notification Law (Miss. Code Ann. § 75-24-29) is the state’s primary cybersecurity regulation, requiring prompt notification of affected individuals after a breach.
2. Who enforces cybersecurity laws in Mississippi?
   The Mississippi Attorney General’s Office enforces cybersecurity and consumer protection laws, including breach notification and fair data practices.
3. Does Mississippi require a specific cybersecurity framework?
   No. While Mississippi doesn’t mandate a specific framework, using NIST or ISO 27001 standards helps demonstrate compliance and reasonable data protection.
4. How quickly must businesses report a data breach in Mississippi?
   Businesses must notify affected individuals and, when applicable, the Attorney General without unreasonable delay after confirming the breach.
5. Do small businesses need to comply with Mississippi cybersecurity laws?
   Yes. Any entity that stores or processes personal information belonging to Mississippi residents must comply with breach notification and data protection requirements.

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.