The Federal Trade Commission issued its final Rule on the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998 that became effective on April 21, 2000. This Rule was found necessary because of growing concern for Children using the Internet. Because many sites request information for users to join online games, chat and to access e-mail, many were concerned that there were no procedures for handling the personal information of children. The Rule is to protect companies who have actual knowledge that information is being collected form a child and to protect the children who use their services.

Reference sites have been set up to educate both parents and children about the precautions that should be used when browsing the Internet. Many of these sites also have suggested links to fun and friendly Web Pages for children.

"Don't Talk to Strangers" Lawchek Editorial

Links

Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule
http://www.ftc.gov/os/1999/9910/64fr59888.pdf
Official document by the Federal Trade Commission.

"EFF: Frequently Asked Questions (and Answers) About the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act"
http://www.eff.org/pub/Privacy/Children/20000420_eff_coppa_faq.html
Good spot with questions and answers for parents concerned with their children's presence on the Internet.

Kidz Privacy
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/edcams/kidzprivacy/
A site dedicated to education for children's privacy on the Net. A good advice section for parents and "rules" for kids using the Internet to keep in mind.  Set up by the Federal Trade Commission.

SafeKids.Com
http://www.safekids.com/
Tips for Child Safety on the Internet.  Allows children to listen to safety rules as well as read them.  Child Safe search engines, links, and extra computer software for parents if interested.

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Notes:
1 CyberAtlas:The Web Marketer's Guide to Online Facts.  "40 Percent of America's Kids Online" June 8, 2000.