The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998 (COPPA) is a United States federal law designed to protect the privacy of children under the age of 13 who are using the internet. This legislation was crafted in response to growing concerns about children's safety on the internet, particularly regarding the collection and use of their personal information by websites and online services.
COPPA imposes certain requirements on operators of websites or online services directed to children under 13 years of age, and on operators of other websites or online services that have actual knowledge that they are collecting personal information online from a child under 13 years of age. The main goal is to place parents in control over what information is collected from their young children online. By regulating how information is collected from children under the age of 13, COPPA helps ensure their safety in the digital environment, giving parents greater control over their children’s personal information.
COPPA has been in effect since 2000, with several updates and revisions to address evolving technology and online practices. It continues to be enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which also provides guidance and updates to ensure clarity and compliance among stakeholders.
