COPPA or otherwise known as the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act is a federal law that was passed in the United States in 1998. This act, was a law to protect the collection of personal information on the internet for children under 13.
The primary goal of COPPA is to place parents in control over what information is collected from their young children online. The Rule was designed to protect children under age 13 while accounting for the dynamic nature of the Internet.
Source: The Federal Trade Commission Website – 2019
Which Websites Are Affected
COPPA applies to sites that are either directed towards children or collect information from children. Additionally, all websites operated by the United States Federal Government are required to comply with COPPA.
How Does It Affect Websites
COPPA requires websites to publish a online privacy policy and describe the data collection practices. It also requires websites to provide a notice to parents and obtain consent before collection personal information of people under 13 years of age. Finally, it requires the website to maintain the confidentiality and security of the collected data.
When Was It Passed
It was passed 1998 but only came into effect on April 21, 2000.
What Are The Penalties For Websites
Violating COPPA is a crime in the United States and violators can fine violators for up to 42,530 US Dollars. The actual fine will be determined based on the severity of the violation.
