Keep Your Kids Safe Online
Are you worried about your child or grandchild’s privacy? Since Lexington County schools closed, families have adjusted to e-learning.
Some parents and grandparents are concerned about what’s collected from kids learning online.
The FTC reminded consumers about the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act. The act usually requires parental consent for any info collected from kids under 13.
Under COPPA, your child’s school can consent on your behalf. The information must be used for educational technology services. They can only use the collected information for educational purposes. 
The info may not be used for any commercial purposes. The Department of Education and Student Privacy Policy Office have protections, too. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act is federal privacy law. It applies to educational agencies and institutions.
Curious about the particulars of an online learning resource? Whether it’s offered by the school or elsewhere, check out the resource’s website. Look for their privacy notice. To learn more about COPPA visit: www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0031-protecting-your-childs-privacy-online .
Beyond rules and regulations, the FTC recommends another valuable resource – a simple, free tool for protecting your kids and grandkids online. Talk with them.
Remind kids they aren’t anonymous and can be held accountable for anything they say, do or post online. Let them know about the risks in with talking to strangers online. Share concerns about other dangers.
Check the FTC Net Cetera resources. They’re specially designed to help you talk to your kids: www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature-0002-parents .
Next: The FTC hits robocalls hard