New York Privacy Compliance Made Easy for SMBs
Simplifying data privacy for Hudson Valley Organizations
NY SHIELD Act
Why it matters: The SHIELD Act requires you to notify customers if their data is breached and prove you’ve taken “reasonable safeguards” to protect it. That includes things like password policies, antivirus software, and secure disposal of records.
Who it affects: Any business that handles personal data of New York residents—even if you’re not physically located in New York.
What SMBs need to know: You don’t need a massive IT budget—just a documented plan, basic protections, and a way to respond if something goes wrong. We help you build that plan and stay compliant.
NYC Biometric Identifier Law
Why it matters: The NYC Biometric Identifier Law requires NYC businesses to disclose this collection clearly and get customer consent. Failing to do so can lead to fines or lawsuits.
Who it affects: NYC-based businesses that collect biometric data—like facial recognition, fingerprints, or retina scans.
What SMBs need to know: If you use biometric time clocks, security cameras, or customer ID systems, you may be affected. We help you audit your tools and update your signage and policies.
HIPAA Compliance
Why it matters: HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996) sets national standards for how patient data is stored, accessed, and shared. Violations can lead to steep fines and loss of trust.
Who it affects: Healthcare providers, therapists, clinics, and any business handling protected health information (PHI).
What SMBs need to know: You need secure systems, clear access controls, and staff who know how to handle sensitive data. We help you build HIPAA-ready infrastructure and training programs that scale with your practice.
WISP
Why it matters: A WISP (Written Information Security Program) is your documented plan for how you protect data. It’s often required for insurance, vendor contracts, and legal compliance.
Who it affects: Any New York business that stores or transmits sensitive customer data—especially names, addresses, financial info, or health records.
What SMBs need to know: You don’t need to write this from scratch. We help you build a WISP that fits your business, meets state requirements, and evolves as your tech stack grows.
DFS Cyber Security Regulation (23 NYCRR 500)
Why it matters: This DFS Cyber Security Regulation requires annual cybersecurity certification, risk assessments, and incident response plans.
Who it affects: Financial institutions regulated by the New York Department of Financial Services—think CPAs, insurance brokers, mortgage lenders.
What SMBs need to know: Even small firms must show they’re actively managing cyber risk. We can help you prepare for audits without drowning in paperwork.
NYDOH Oversight (10 NYCRR 405.46)
Why it matters: This rule complements HIPAA with state-specific requirements around physical and electronic safeguards.
Who it affects: Healthcare facilities regulated by the New York Department of Health.
What SMBs need to know: If you’re a clinic, urgent care center, or long-term care provider, you need to secure patient records and limit access based on roles. We help you align your systems and staff workflows with NYDOH standards.
Not sure what compliance laws apply to you?
We’ll help you figure it out. Whether you’re a clinic in Poughkeepsie, a CPA in Newburgh, or a retailer in Beacon, we tailor compliance to your real-world needs. We support Hudson Valley businesses across a wide range of tech-related frameworks. If you handle sensitive data, process payments, or operate in a regulated industry—we’ll help you stay secure, audit-ready, and ahead of the curve.
| Industry | Applicable Regulations |
|---|---|
| Healthcare | HIPAA, SHIELD Act, NYDOH, WISP |
| Finance | DFS 23 NYCRR 500, SHIELD Act, WISP |
| Retail & E-Commerce | SHIELD Act, PCI-DSS, WISP |
| Education | FERPA, SHIELD Act, WISP |
| NYC Businesses | NYC Biometric Law, SHIELD Act |
| Professional Services | SHIELD Act, WISP |
Your compliance strategy starts here.
Fill out the form and we’ll help you build a strategy that fits your industry, your technology gear, and your real-world needs. Fill out the form below or call us at 845-454-2027 and we’ll schedule a consultation.
New York Compliance FAQ for Small Businesses
Do I need SHIELD Act compliance if I’m a small business?
Yes—if you collect personal data from New York residents, the SHIELD Act applies regardless of your business size or location.
What’s the difference between HIPAA and the SHIELD Act?
HIPAA protects health information and applies to healthcare entities. The SHIELD Act covers a broader range of personal data and applies to any business handling New York residents’ information.
How do I know which compliance regulations apply to my business?
We help you assess your data practices, industry, and risk level to determine which laws—like HIPAA, DFS, or WISP—are relevant.
What’s a WISP and why do I need one?
A Written Information Security Program (WISP) is a documented plan for how your business protects sensitive data. It’s often required for insurance, vendor contracts, and state compliance.
How does netEffx help with compliance?
We offer risk assessments, policy creation, staff training, and infrastructure support to help you meet New York’s data privacy laws with confidence.