Missouri Cybersecurity Laws You Should Know (2025)

Mitch Wolverton

As cyber threats continue to grow in frequency and sophistication, Missouri businesses are under increasing pressure to protect sensitive information and maintain compliance. Understanding Missouri cybersecurity laws is essential for preventing data breaches, safeguarding consumer trust, and avoiding legal penalties. Below, we’ll break down the most important cybersecurity laws and regulations that affect Missouri businesses.

Missouri Cybersecurity Laws

Missouri Data Breach Notification Law (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 407.1500)

The Missouri Data Breach Notification Law requires businesses to notify affected individuals without unreasonable delay, and no later than 45 days after determining that a data breach occurred involving personal information. If more than 1,000 residents are affected, companies must also notify nationwide consumer reporting agencies.

The notification must describe the breach, list the categories of information exposed, and explain what steps have been taken to protect consumers. The Missouri Attorney General may enforce compliance and impose penalties for violations.

Missouri Computer Tampering and Cybercrime Law (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 569.095–569.099)

This law criminalizes unauthorized access to computer systems, data alteration, and cyber fraud. It also covers offenses such as introducing malware, disrupting networks, or stealing sensitive data. Penalties range from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the nature of the offense.

Missouri Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 407.020)

The Missouri Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act prohibits false or misleading claims about data security practices. Businesses that fail to implement reasonable safeguards or misrepresent their cybersecurity policies can face enforcement actions from the Attorney General.

Missouri Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 432.200 et seq.)

This act validates electronic records and signatures for legal and commercial transactions in Missouri. Businesses must use proper authentication methods and secure storage to maintain the integrity and confidentiality of digital records.

Federal and Industry-Specific Cybersecurity Regulations That Affect Missouri Businesses

Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS)

PCI DSS applies to Missouri businesses that process or store credit card transactions. It requires encryption, network security measures, and periodic vulnerability testing to protect payment information.

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

HIPAA applies to Missouri healthcare providers and their business associates. It mandates administrative, technical, and physical safeguards for protecting patient data and requires timely breach reporting.

Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA)

Financial institutions in Missouri must comply with GLBA, which requires them to protect customer financial information, provide privacy notices, and implement information security programs.

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

GDPR applies to Missouri businesses that collect or process data from EU residents. It requires explicit consent, data minimization, and provides individuals with the right to access and delete their data.

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

Missouri financial institutions with operations in New York must comply with NYDFS cybersecurity regulations, including multifactor authentication, encryption, and 72-hour incident reporting.

NIST Cybersecurity Framework

The NIST Cybersecurity Framework provides best practices for managing cyber risks across industries. Many Missouri organizations, especially in manufacturing, healthcare, and utilities, use this framework to strengthen their defenses.

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Act

Under the FTC Act, Missouri businesses must take reasonable steps to secure consumer information. The FTC can take enforcement action if a company fails to protect data or makes false security claims.

Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)

If your Missouri business collects personal data from children under 13, COPPA applies. It requires verified parental consent and limits how children’s information can be used or shared.

Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS)

Missouri 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 practices in cybersecurity, holding Missouri businesses accountable for failing to protect personal data or misleading consumers about security measures.

More Missouri Cybersecurity Laws to Be Aware Of

Missouri has taken proactive steps to enhance cybersecurity resilience through partnerships between the Missouri Cybersecurity Center of Excellence (MCCE) and the Missouri Office of Administration’s Information Technology Services Division (OA-ITSD). These organizations help strengthen data protection, provide training, and coordinate cyber response across public and private sectors.

Businesses in Missouri should conduct annual cybersecurity risk assessments, maintain incident response plans, and adopt frameworks such as NIST, CIS Controls, or ISO 27001 to demonstrate “reasonable security” practices under state law.

Conclusion

Compliance with Missouri cybersecurity laws is essential for businesses to protect customer information, maintain reputation, and reduce risk exposure. By adhering to both state and federal cybersecurity standards, Missouri businesses can strengthen defenses against evolving cyber threats.

If your company needs help managing compliance or improving data security in Missouri, we offer tailored cybersecurity solutions to keep your organization safe and aligned with all legal requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri Cybersecurity Laws

What is Missouri’s main cybersecurity law?
The Missouri Data Breach Notification Law (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 407.1500) is the state’s primary cybersecurity statute, requiring notification within 45 days of discovering a data breach.
Who enforces cybersecurity laws in Missouri?
The Missouri Attorney General’s Office enforces cybersecurity and consumer protection laws, including data breach notification compliance.
Does Missouri require businesses to adopt a specific cybersecurity framework?
No. While not mandatory, following frameworks like NIST or ISO 27001 is recommended to demonstrate compliance and reasonable security practices.
Do small businesses in Missouri have to comply with cybersecurity laws?
Yes. Any organization that collects or maintains personal information about Missouri residents, regardless of size, must follow breach notification and data protection requirements.
What industries are most affected by Missouri cybersecurity laws?
Healthcare, finance, education, and defense sectors face stricter cybersecurity obligations under laws such as HIPAA, GLBA, and DFARS.