The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) is a U.S. federal law enacted in 1998, designed to protect the online privacy of children under the age of 13. COPPA regulates the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information from children by websites and online services. It requires operators of websites directed at children or those with actual knowledge of collecting personal information from minors to obtain verifiable parental consent before doing so. The law also mandates the provision of clear privacy policies outlining data practices, and it imposes restrictions on the retention and security of children’s personal information.

COPPA places responsibilities on operators to safeguard the data and ensures parents have control over their children’s online activities. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) oversees and enforces COPPA compliance, assessing penalties for violations. In the evolving digital landscape, COPPA continues to play a vital role in mitigating potential risks associated with the online collection of children’s personal information, fostering a safer online environment for young users. As technology advances, COPPA remains a crucial framework in addressing privacy concerns related to children’s online interactions.