The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (“COPPA”) specifically requires website operators to notify parents and obtain their consent when collecting, using, or disclosing the personal information of children under the age of 13.
COPPA was established in 2000 in response to growing concern and awareness of the online targeting of children and the collection and use of children’s personal information without parental notice and consent. Its main requirements include:
- Implementing a privacy policy detailing information collection practices
- Obtaining parental consent prior to collecting personal information for children under 13
- The right to revoke consent and delete information
- Disclosure to parents of information collected on their children
- Limited collection of information when child uses online programs and applications
- Protection of the confidentiality, security, and integrity of any personal information collected from children
Updates:
The FTC released Proposed Revisions to COPPA in response to changing technologies. “In this era of rapid technological change, kids are often tech savvy but judgment poor. We want to ensure that the COPPA Rule is effective in helping parents protect their children online, without unnecessarily burdening online businesses,” said FTC Chairman Jon Leibowitz. “We look forward to the continuing thoughtful input from industry, children’s advocates, and other stakeholders as we work to update the Rule.” Written comments must be received on or before December 23, 2011. For more information, click here.