The internet is a vast and exciting place, especially for children eager to explore, learn, and play. However, with this digital freedom comes the need to protect our youngest users. In the United States, the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) serves as a safeguard for children under the age of 13, ensuring their personal information remains private and secure.
What is COPPA?
Enacted in 1998, COPPA is a federal law designed to give parents control over the information collected from their children online. It mandates that websites, apps, games, and online services that collect personal information from children under 13 must obtain verifiable parental consent before doing so. This ensures that parents are aware of and can manage the data being gathered about their kids.
What Constitutes Personal Information?
Under COPPA, personal information includes:
- Full name
- Home address
- Email address
- Phone number
- Social Security number
- Geolocation data
- Photos or videos containing the child’s image or voice
- IP addresses and other persistent identifiers that can recognize users over time and across different websites or online services
This comprehensive definition ensures that any data which could potentially identify or track a child is protected.
How Does COPPA Protect Children?
COPPA places several requirements on operators of websites and online services aimed at children or those that knowingly collect information from children under 13:
- Parental Consent
Before collecting personal information, companies must obtain verifiable consent from parents. This can be achieved through methods like consent forms, phone calls, or using a credit card for verification.
- Privacy Policies
Operators must provide clear and comprehensive privacy policies detailing their information practices, including what data is collected, how it’s used, and their disclosure practices.
- Data Minimization
Companies are encouraged to collect only the information necessary for the activity and to retain it only as long as needed.
- Security Measures
Reasonable procedures must be in place to protect the confidentiality, security, and integrity of the personal information collected.
Why is COPPA Important for Parents?
In today’s digital age, children are accessing the internet at younger ages, often without fully understanding the implications of sharing personal information. COPPA empowers parents to be the gatekeepers of their children’s online privacy, ensuring that they have a say in what information is collected and how it’s used. By being informed and proactive, parents can help their children enjoy the benefits of the internet while minimizing potential risks.
Tips for Parents to Enhance Online Safety:
- Open Communication
Regularly discuss with your child the importance of not sharing personal information online and the potential risks involved. Parent’s Guide to Internet Safety
- Use Parental Controls
Utilize the parental control features available on devices, apps, and platforms to manage your child’s online experience. Parental Controls Guide
- Stay Informed
Familiarize yourself with the websites and apps your child uses. Review their privacy policies to understand how they collect and use data.
- Educate About Online Behavior
Teach your child about the importance of respectful online interactions and the potential consequences of cyberbullying or sharing inappropriate content.
Additional Resources:
- Common Sense Media
Provides reviews and advice on various media and technology, helping parents make informed decisions.
- Internet Matters
Offers resources and tools to help parents keep their children safe online.
- ConnectSafely
Provides research-based safety tips, parents’ guidebooks, advice, news, and commentary on all aspects of technology use and policy.
- NSPCC Online Safety
Offers advice and resources to help keep children safe online.
- SafeKids.com
Provides tips, advice, and resources to help keep kids safe online.
By understanding COPPA and implementing these safety measures, parents can play a pivotal role in ensuring their children’s online experiences are both enjoyable and secure.