What is Verifiable Parental Consent and Why It Matters

Definition & Meaning

Verifiable parental consent refers to the measures taken to ensure that a parent or guardian is informed about and agrees to the collection, use, and sharing of their child's personal information online. This concept is particularly important in protecting children's privacy in the digital environment. It involves reasonable efforts, considering available technology, to notify parents about data practices and to obtain their authorization before any personal information is collected from their child.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, a mobile app designed for children may require parental consent before collecting any personal information, such as a child's name or email address. The app might send a verification email to the parent, asking for their approval to proceed with data collection. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Informed Consent Agreement by a person to allow something to happen after being informed of the risks. Informed consent applies to adults and may involve medical or legal procedures, while verifiable parental consent specifically pertains to children's data privacy.
Parental Consent General agreement by a parent for a child to participate in an activity or service. Verifiable parental consent includes specific requirements for data collection and privacy, while parental consent can be broader and less formal.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a parent or guardian and receive a request for verifiable parental consent, review the privacy policy of the service or app to understand how your child's information will be used. You can use legal form templates from US Legal Forms to draft consent forms or to help manage your child's online privacy effectively. If you have concerns or if the situation is complex, consulting a legal professional may be advisable.

Quick facts

  • Age Requirement: Applies to children under thirteen years old.
  • Consent Type: Must be explicit and verifiable.
  • Primary Law: Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).
  • Potential Penalties: Non-compliance can result in significant fines.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

The purpose is to protect children's privacy by ensuring that parents are informed and approve the collection of their child's personal information.