The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) became effective April 21, 2000. Web sites that are directed to children 12 and under or that "knowingly collect information" from this group must post a notice of their information collection practices that includes: types of personal information they collect from children-for example, name, e-mail and hobbies; how the site will use the information-for example, to market and to notify contest winners; whether the personal information is forwarded to advertisers or other third parties; and a contact at the site. Learn more about COPPA by visiting the sites below.

FTC—How To Comply With COPPA
The Federal Trade Commission staff prepared this guide to help you comply with the new requirements for protecting children's privacy online and understand the FTC's enforcement authority.

Children's Privacy and Safety on the Internet: A Resource Guide for Parents
The guide provides resources for parents to maximize the benefits of cyberspace for children and minimize the dangers.

EPIC's COPPA Web site
This website by the Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC) is devoted to kids' privacy issues and the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) of 1998.