Consultation on US COPPA changes

The US Federal Trade Commission, FTC, is seeking comments on proposed revisions to Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule. The FTC’s Rule implements the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), which provides protection for the processing of childrens’ information online when they are under 13. The FTC proposes amendments to ensure that the Rule continues to protect children’s privacy. Changes are proposed to definitions, parental notice, parental consent mechanisms, confidentiality and security of children’s personal information, and the role of Safe Harbor programme.

“In this era of rapid technological change, kids are often tech savvy but judgment poor. We want to ensure that the COPPA Rule is effective in helping parents protect their children online, without unnecessarily burdening online businesses,” said FTC Chairman Jon Leibowitz. “We look forward to the continuing thoughtful input from industry, children’s advocates, and other stakeholders as we work to update the Rule.”

Comments are sought by 28 November 2011.