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COPPA Children's Privacy Law

United States

1998

Privacy

Consumer Protection

Overview

The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) is a U.S. federal law enacted in 1998 and enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). COPPA regulates how websites, apps, and online services collect, use, and disclose personal information from children under the age of 13.
The law applies to online platforms, educational technology providers, game developers, advertising networks, and any other businesses operating websites or services directed at children or knowingly collecting data from them. It aims to give parents control over what information is collected from their children online. Organizations must implement comprehensive age verification laws to ensure compliance with parental consent requirements, data collection limitations, and privacy protection standards when providing services to minors.

Key Obligations

Provide a clear and comprehensive privacy policy
Obtain verifiable parental consent before collecting personal data from children
Give parents access to review and delete their child's information

Maintain data security and limit retention
Prohibit sharing or selling children’s data without consent

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FAQ

Who must comply with COPPA?

Any online service or app targeting children under 13 or knowingly collecting their data.

What qualifies as “personal information” under COPPA?

This includes name, address, email, photos, voice recordings, IP address, and more.

How can businesses obtain parental consent?

Methods include email with confirmation, credit card verification, signed forms, or video calls.

What are the penalties for COPPA violations?

Violations can result in civil penalties up to $50,120 per violation, as enforced by the FTC.