The U.S. Supreme Court issued a major decision against telecom companies, siding with privacy advocates over the sale of real-time location data. The ruling upholds the government’s ability to impose heavy penalties for mishandling sensitive user information.

In an 8–1 decision, the Court affirmed that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) can fine companies like AT&T and Verizon for improper handling of personal data. The case involved $104 million in penalties, reinforcing federal oversight of privacy-related violations.

The telecom giants argued that the FCC’s enforcement process was unconstitutional. They claimed that such large fines should require a jury trial before being imposed, questioning the agency’s authority to issue penalties directly.

Chief Justice John Roberts, writing for the majority, rejected this claim, explaining: “companies always had a choice: refuse to pay the fines and challenge them in court, where a jury trial could then occur.” The Court emphasized that due process is preserved through judicial review if companies contest penalties.

The ruling strengthens federal power to regulate how companies handle real-time location data and other sensitive information. Advocacy groups welcomed the decision, pointing out past abuses where location data was sold and resold, sometimes reaching dangerous actors. The Court’s decision ensures regulators can continue enforcing privacy protections, sending a clear message that mishandling personal data carries serious consequences.