Revised Rule For Children's Online Privacy Takes Effect

Starting Monday, parents have greater control over what's collected online from their children's personal information, according to the Federal Trade Commission.

Monday the revised Children's Online Privacy Protection Act Rule, (COPPA) took effect. It addresses changes in the way children use and access the internet, including mobile devices and social networking, according to the FTC.

The revised rule also widens the definition of children's personal information to include cookies that track a child's activity online as well as geolocation information, photos and videos, explains the FTC.

“The updated COPPA rule helps put parents in charge of their children’s personal information as it keeps pace with changing technologies," FTC Chairwoman Edith Ramirez said.

Congress first mandated the COPPA  rule in 1998. It requires operators of websites or online services that are either directed to children younger than 13 or have actual knowledge that they are collecting personal information from children under 13 give notice to parents and get consent before collecting, using, or disclosing such personal information.

You can learn more about the revised COPPA rule here.

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