Children's Online Privacy

What is the Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule?

The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) was passed by Congress in October 1998, with a requirement that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issue and enforce rules concerning children's online privacy. The primary goal of the Act and the Rule is to place parents in control over what information is collected from their children online. The Rule was designed to be strong, yet flexible, to protect children while recognizing the dynamic nature of the Internet.

FAQs: http://www.ftc.gov/privacy/coppafaqs.htm

Congress enacted the COPPA to prohibit unfair or deceptive acts or practices in connection with the collection, use, or disclosure of personally identifiable information from and about children on the Internet.

In addition, the FTC has set up a special web page designed for kids, parents, businesses, and educators at www.ftc.gov/kidzprivacy. In addition to providing the Rule and compliance materials for businesses and parents, this web page features online safety tips for children and other useful education resources about the Rule and online privacy in general.

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While the government is doing it's part in protecting children's privacy, these laws apply to commercial websites that collect personal information from minor children.

But what about irresponsible adults who intentionally gather and publish personal information about minor children with reckless disregard? Such reprehensible behavior most assuredly deserves exposure, as the offender is inducted into the...

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