Children's Online Privacy Protection Act

Definition

The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) is a U.S. federal law designed to protect the privacy of children under the age of 13 by regulating how websites and online services collect, use, and disclose personal information from children. This law requires operators of websites or online services directed toward children to obtain parental consent before collecting any personal information, ensuring that parents have control over their children's data and privacy online.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. COPPA was enacted in 1998 to address growing concerns about children's privacy in the online environment and has undergone amendments to stay relevant with technological advancements.
2. Website operators must clearly state their privacy policies regarding children's data collection and provide parents with access to their child's personal information.
3. Violations of COPPA can result in significant penalties, including fines of up to $43,280 per violation enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
4. The act also mandates that operators take reasonable steps to protect the confidentiality and security of children's personal information from unauthorized access.
5. COPPA applies not only to commercial websites but also to applications and online services directed at children or that have actual knowledge of collecting information from children.

Review Questions

• How does the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act ensure parental control over children's online data?
  • The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act requires that operators of websites or online services obtain verifiable parental consent before collecting personal information from children under 13. This means parents must be informed about what data is collected and how it will be used, allowing them to make informed decisions regarding their child's privacy. Additionally, parents are given the right to review their child's information and request its deletion, reinforcing their control over their child's online presence.
• Discuss the implications of COPPA for online services that target children and how they must adapt their practices to comply.
  • Online services that target children must implement strict practices to comply with COPPA. This includes creating clear and accessible privacy policies, ensuring they obtain parental consent before collecting any personal data, and allowing parents to access and manage their child's information. These adaptations not only protect children's privacy but also shape how companies develop marketing strategies and design user experiences tailored for a younger audience while adhering to legal standards.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of COPPA in today's digital landscape and suggest potential improvements or updates that could enhance children's online privacy protection.
  • COPPA has played a crucial role in establishing a framework for protecting children's privacy online; however, the rapid evolution of technology presents challenges that may undermine its effectiveness. For instance, many apps and platforms do not target children explicitly but still collect data from users under 13. Enhancements could include expanding definitions around targeted advertising practices and incorporating modern data protection technologies. Additionally, increasing awareness among parents about their rights under COPPA could further empower them to safeguard their children's online experiences more effectively.

Related terms

Parental Consent: The requirement for website operators to obtain explicit permission from a child's parent or guardian before collecting, using, or disclosing the child's personal information.

Personal Information: Any data that can be used to identify an individual, including names, addresses, email addresses, and other identifying details, particularly concerning children under 13 in the context of COPPA.

Online Services: Platforms, websites, and applications that operate on the internet and may collect user data, including social media, gaming sites, and educational tools that target children.