Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)

Protecting children's privacy in the digital world is crucial. That's where the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) comes in. Enacted in 1998 and enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), COPPA sets the rules for online services and websites that collect personal information from children under 13.

COPPA is essential for safeguarding children's privacy in the digital age. It empowers parents to control the collection and use of their children's personal information and encourages businesses to adopt responsible data practices.

What Does COPPA Protect?

COPPA focuses on:

Children Under 13: It applies to websites and online services (including apps and games) that are either directed to children under 13 or have actual knowledge that they are collecting personal information from children under 13.
Personal Information: This includes a wide range of information that can be used to identify a child, such as their name, address, email address, online identifiers, and even photos and videos.
Parental Consent: COPPA requires websites and online services to obtain verifiable parental consent before collecting, using, or disclosing personal information from children under 13.

Why is COPPA Important?

COPPA is crucial for safeguarding children's privacy in the digital age. It empowers parents to control the collection and use of their children's personal information and encourages businesses to adopt responsible data practices.

Non-compliance with COPPA can lead to:

Fines and penalties: The FTC can impose substantial civil penalties for violations, reaching up to $50,120 per violation.
Reputational damage: COPPA violations can erode trust and harm a company's reputation.
Legal challenges: The FTC can take legal action against companies that fail to comply with COPPA.

Who Needs to Comply with COPPA?

Websites and online services (including apps and games) that are directed to children under 13.
Websites and online services that have actual knowledge they are collecting personal information from children under 13.
Operators of general audience websites and online services that have a separate children's section.

How Can Businesses Comply with COPPA?

Post a clear and comprehensive privacy policy.
Provide notice to parents and obtain verifiable parental consent before collecting children's personal information.
Give parents access to their child's personal information and the ability to delete it.
Implement reasonable security measures to protect children's data.
Retain children's personal information only as long as necessary.

Aetos Data Consulting Can Help:

Aetos Data Consulting provides expert guidance and support to help businesses navigate the complexities of COPPA. Our services include:

COPPA compliance audits
Policy development and implementation
Training and awareness programs