Understanding COPPA: The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act
A blog post by Cyber Search.
Introduction to COPPA
The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act, or COPPA, is a federal law enacted in the United States in 1998 to address the growing concerns about the online privacy of children under 13 years of age. COPPA gives parents control over what information websites and online services may collect from their children. Today, with the ever-increasing presence of the internet in children’s lives, understanding and adhering to COPPA is more important than ever. It affects websites, apps, and online services that are either directed towards children or knowingly collect personal information from children.
Key Requirements of COPPA
Under COPPA, operators of websites and online services must provide a clear and comprehensive privacy policy, obtain verifiable parental consent before collecting personal information from children, and maintain the confidentiality, security, and integrity of the information they collect. Additionally, they must allow parents to review and delete their children’s information and not condition a child’s participation in an activity on the provision of more personal information than is reasonably necessary.
Compliance and Enforcement
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is responsible for enforcing COPPA, and noncompliance can result in hefty fines. Website operators, and others responsible for children’s online content, have to ensure they comply with the rules set forth by COPPA to avoid such penalties. It’s not just about avoiding fines; it’s also about building trust with users and affirming a commitment to protecting children's privacy online.
Impact on Online Services
COPPA has influenced the way online services approach children. Many companies have created separate services or altered their data collection practices for younger audiences. It has also increased awareness amongst parents and educators regarding the importance of overseeing children’s online interactions and the kinds of personal information they may inadvertently disclose.
Staying Informed
The internet is an ever-evolving landscape, and laws like COPPA evolve with it to provide relevant safeguards. Staying informed about these changes is crucial for anyone involved in creating or distributing online content for children. It’s also valuable knowledge for parents looking to protect their children's online privacy.