Introduction to COPPA
The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) is a crucial law that regulates how websites and online services collect data from children under 13. With the rise of educational technology (edtech) tools in schools, understanding COPPA is essential for educators and school leaders. This article outlines the key features of COPPA, including parental consent requirements, privacy policies, and data security measures. It also provides best practices for schools and actionable steps teachers can take to ensure compliance and protect student data.
Key Features of COPPA:
- Parental Consent: Companies must obtain verifiable parental consent before collecting personal information from children.
- Privacy Policy: A clear and comprehensive privacy policy must be provided by companies detailing the information collected.
- Data Security: Companies are required to keep collected information confidential and secure, with stricter limits on data retention.
Use Cases:
- Educators can use this information to select appropriate educational tools that comply with COPPA.
- Schools can implement best practices to ensure they are protecting student data while using technology in the classroom.