Wisconsin Cybersecurity Laws You Should Know (2025)

Cyber threats continue to challenge businesses of every size, and Wisconsin is no exception. From ransomware to data breaches, companies across the state must understand and comply with Wisconsin cybersecurity laws to protect sensitive information and avoid costly penalties. Below, we’ll cover the key state and federal cybersecurity laws that apply to Wisconsin businesses and the best practices for maintaining compliance.

Wisconsin Cybersecurity Laws

Wisconsin Data Breach Notification Law (Wis. Stat. § 134.98)

The Wisconsin Data Breach Notification Law requires businesses to notify affected individuals within a reasonable time after discovering a data breach involving personal information. The notification must include the type of data compromised and the steps taken to prevent further harm. If a breach affects more than 1,000 Wisconsin residents, the business must also notify nationwide consumer reporting agencies.

Wisconsin Consumer Act (Wis. Stat. § 421 et seq.)

This law prohibits unfair or deceptive business practices, which includes misrepresenting cybersecurity measures or failing to safeguard customer data. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) enforces compliance and can issue penalties for violations.

Wisconsin Computer Crimes Law (Wis. Stat. § 943.70)

The Wisconsin Computer Crimes Law makes unauthorized access, data alteration, and system disruption criminal offenses. This statute applies to both individuals and organizations and serves as the foundation for prosecuting cyberattacks within the state.

Wisconsin Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (Wis. Stat. § 137.11 et seq.)

This act recognizes electronic records and digital signatures as legally valid. Businesses conducting online transactions in Wisconsin must implement authentication controls, encryption, and secure data retention practices.

Federal and Industry-Specific Cybersecurity Regulations That Affect Wisconsin Businesses

Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS)

PCI DSS applies to Wisconsin businesses that handle credit card payments. Compliance requires encryption, network monitoring, and vulnerability testing to prevent breaches.

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

HIPAA applies to Wisconsin healthcare organizations and their business associates. It mandates strict safeguards for protecting personal health information (PHI) and requires prompt breach reporting.

Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA)

Financial institutions in Wisconsin must comply with GLBA, which requires data protection programs, employee cybersecurity training, and consumer privacy disclosures.

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

GDPR applies to Wisconsin businesses that collect or process data from EU citizens. It requires explicit consent and gives individuals rights to access, correct, or delete their personal data.

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

Wisconsin financial entities operating in New York must comply with NYDFS cybersecurity standards, including multi-factor authentication, encryption, and annual risk assessments.

NIST Cybersecurity Framework

The NIST Cybersecurity Framework provides voluntary but widely recognized guidelines used by Wisconsin businesses to identify, protect, detect, respond to, and recover from cyber incidents.

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Act

Under the FTC Act, Wisconsin businesses must use reasonable security measures to protect customer information. The FTC may penalize organizations that mislead consumers or fail to protect data.

Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)

If your Wisconsin business collects data from children under 13, COPPA applies. It requires verified parental consent and limits the collection and sharing of children’s personal data.

Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX)

Publicly traded companies in Wisconsin must comply with SOX, which mandates secure internal controls to ensure accurate financial reporting and prevent data tampering.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

FERPA protects student educational records and applies to Wisconsin schools and educational service providers, requiring written consent before releasing student data.

Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act (CIRCIA)

CIRCIA requires critical infrastructure operators in Wisconsin, such as energy, manufacturing, and logistics companies, to report major cybersecurity incidents to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) within 72 hours.

CAN-SPAM Act

The CAN-SPAM Act governs commercial emails nationwide, requiring truthful subject lines, clear sender information, and easy unsubscribe options.

Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS)

Wisconsin defense contractors must comply with DFARS cybersecurity requirements aligned 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 Wisconsin businesses accountable for false claims or negligence in data protection.

More Wisconsin Cybersecurity Laws to Be Aware Of

Wisconsin continues to expand its focus on cybersecurity readiness through the Wisconsin Cyber Response Team (CRT), established by the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs. The CRT helps organizations prepare for and respond to cyber incidents across state and local networks.

The Wisconsin Office of Privacy Protection also provides resources to help businesses and residents prevent identity theft and strengthen cybersecurity awareness. Companies should perform annual risk assessments, develop written security policies, and adopt frameworks like NIST or ISO 27001 to meet industry best practices.

Conclusion

Staying compliant with Wisconsin cybersecurity laws helps protect your business from data breaches, financial loss, and reputational damage. By adhering to state and federal data protection standards, organizations can demonstrate strong cybersecurity governance and maintain consumer confidence.

If your company needs help navigating cybersecurity compliance in Wisconsin, we offer comprehensive solutions designed to protect your operations, strengthen security, and align with evolving regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wisconsin Cybersecurity Laws

1. What is Wisconsin’s main cybersecurity law?
   The Wisconsin Data Breach Notification Law (Wis. Stat. § 134.98) is the state’s primary cybersecurity statute, requiring prompt notification of affected individuals following a data breach.
2. Who enforces cybersecurity laws in Wisconsin?
   The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) and the Attorney General’s Office enforce data protection and consumer cybersecurity laws.
3. How quickly must Wisconsin businesses report a data breach?
   Businesses must notify affected individuals and relevant agencies within a reasonable time after confirming a data breach.
4. Does Wisconsin require specific cybersecurity standards?
   No specific framework is mandated, but businesses are encouraged to follow standards like NIST, CIS Controls, or ISO 27001 to demonstrate compliance.
5. Do small businesses have to comply with these laws?
   Yes. All entities that collect or maintain personal information of Wisconsin residents must follow the breach notification and data protection laws, regardless of size.

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.