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Understanding the Childrens Online Privacy Protection Act: What You Need to Know
Definition & Meaning
The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) is a federal law in the United States aimed at protecting the personal information of children under the age of 13 when they use websites and online services. Enacted in 1998 and enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), COPPA requires operators of websites directed at children to obtain verifiable parental consent before collecting, using, or disclosing personal information from children. This law ensures that parents are involved in their children's online activities and that children's data is handled responsibly.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
COPPA is primarily used in the context of internet law, privacy law, and consumer protection. It applies to any online service or website that targets children or knowingly collects personal information from children. Legal practitioners may encounter COPPA in cases involving data privacy violations, compliance issues, or disputes over parental consent. Individuals and businesses can utilize legal templates from US Legal Forms to ensure compliance with COPPA requirements.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A popular children's gaming website must implement a system to obtain parental consent before allowing children to create accounts and share personal information.
Example 2: A general audience social media platform that collects data from users must ensure they do not inadvertently collect information from children under 13 without parental consent (hypothetical example).
Relevant laws & statutes
The primary statute governing this area is the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) itself. The FTC enforces COPPA and has established rules and guidelines for compliance. Other relevant laws may include state privacy laws that offer additional protections for minors.
State-by-state differences
State
Key Differences
California
Has additional privacy laws (California Consumer Privacy Act) that provide broader rights to consumers, including minors.
New York
Enforces stricter regulations on data privacy that may affect how COPPA is implemented.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Key Differences
COPPA
A federal law protecting children's privacy online.
Specifically targets children under 13 and requires parental consent.
FERPA
A federal law protecting the privacy of student education records.
Applies to educational institutions rather than online services.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you operate a website or online service that may collect information from children, ensure you understand COPPA's requirements. Implement a system for obtaining verifiable parental consent and create a clear privacy policy. Consider using US Legal Forms for templates that can help you comply with COPPA. If you find compliance challenging, consulting a legal professional may be necessary.
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