Geolocation Data
Definition
Data derived from technology (such as GPS, Wi-Fi, or cell tower triangulation) that identifies a person's precise physical location. "Precise" geolocation typically means data accurate to within a radius of 1,750 feet or less. Precise geolocation data is classified as sensitive data under most state privacy laws.
Legal Definition
Under the CCPA (Cal. Civ. Code 1798.140(w)): "precise geolocation" means "any data that is derived from a device and that is used or intended to be used to locate a consumer within a geographic area that is equal to or less than the area of a circle with a radius of 1,850 feet." Under the VCDPA, precise geolocation data is classified as sensitive data.
State Laws Using This Term
Practical Example
A weather app collects a user's GPS coordinates to provide local forecasts. Since GPS data pinpoints the user's location within a few meters, this is precise geolocation data requiring opt-in consent under most state privacy laws.
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Is city-level location data considered precise geolocation?
No. City-level or ZIP code-level location data is generally not considered "precise" geolocation. The threshold is typically a radius of 1,750-1,850 feet. Coarse location data that only identifies a general area does not trigger sensitive data requirements.