Tag Archives: BBB National Programs

The COPPA Rule: Proposed Changes, the Impact, & the Magic 8-Ball



In December 2023, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) proposed changes to the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) Rule, including some that would place more responsibility on providers and platforms to ensure digital privacy and safety for children. 

In this episode of Priv, our host Dona Fraser is joined by SIIA Vice President, Education & Children’s Policy, Sara Kloek, and Children’s Advertising Review Unit (CARU) Director, Rukiya Bonner, to discuss how we got here, what the proposed changes mean, the potential impacts of these changes for businesses and Safe Harbors, as well as some predictions on the road ahead.

The conversation delves into the proposed changes to the COPPA Rule and their ramifications on the industry. Explored within are the origins of COPPA, recent regulatory actions and reviews, the importance of data security and compliance, emerging methods for obtaining parental consent, the significance of COPPA Safe Harbors, transparency obligations, the delineation of a child, challenges related to content and access, the impact of avatars on personal data, COPPA’s application in educational settings, and key revisions in the COPPA Rule. 

Some Key Takeaways from today’s episode:

  1. (2:10) Companies and the COPPA Rule Changes: With proposed changes to the COPPA Rule looming, companies must prioritize a proactive approach towards data security and compliance. Reviewing these alterations is crucial as it directly impacts how businesses handle children’s data. By staying ahead of the curve, companies can implement necessary measures to safeguard user information and ensure adherence to regulatory standards, fostering trust among consumers and mitigating potential legal risks.
  2. (11:57) COPPA Safe Harbors and Privacy Commitment: COPPA Safe Harbors serve as invaluable tools for companies aiming to showcase their dedication to safeguarding children’s privacy. By adhering to these guidelines, businesses not only enhance their reputation but also contribute to a safer online environment for young users. Embracing COPPA Safe Harbors demonstrates a commitment to ethical data practices, ultimately fostering long-term trust and loyalty among consumers.
  3. (20:56) Complexity of Child Definition and Age Thresholds: Discussions surrounding the definition of a child and age thresholds are multifaceted and necessitate careful consideration. The evolving digital landscape and varying developmental stages of children further complicate this matter. As such, ongoing dialogues are essential to ensure that regulatory frameworks accurately reflect the needs and vulnerabilities of young users, striking a delicate balance between protection and accessibility.
  4. (28:49) Enhancing User Experience and COPPA Compliance: Transparent notice and consent processes, coupled with innovative approaches to privacy policies, play a pivotal role in enhancing both user experience and compliance with COPPA regulations. By prioritizing clear communication and user-friendly interfaces, companies can empower users to make informed decisions regarding their data while simultaneously meeting regulatory requirements. Creative strategies in this realm not only promote compliance but also foster positive user engagement and brand loyalty.
  5. (41:40) Adapting to Uncertain Timelines and COPPA Rule Changes: While the timeline for the final COPPA Rule remains uncertain, companies must remain vigilant and adaptable in the face of potential changes. Staying informed about developments in regulatory landscapes is paramount, allowing businesses to swiftly adjust their practices and policies as needed. By prioritizing flexibility and preparedness, companies can navigate regulatory shifts with confidence, ensuring continued compliance and consumer trust.

 

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Contact Information: programs@bbbnp.org
Listen to the full episode here.


Episode Show Notes: The Good, the Bad, and the Grey of Targeted Advertising



Show Notes: The Good, the Bad, and the Grey of Targeted Advertising

 

00:00 – In episode two of Privacy Abbreviated, hosts Dona Fraser, Senior Vice President of Privacy Initiatives at BBB National Programs, and Catherine Dawson, General Counsel and Chief Privacy Officer of Osano, walk listeners through how to target responsibly. Some consumers love the personalization it delivers to their social media feeds, while others are concerned that it’s an invasion of privacy. With their guest, they discuss how to use targeted advertising responsibly, using data to track consumers and display ads for products they have previously shown interest in, and how marketers should prepare for the American Data Protection and Privacy Act.

Continue reading Episode Show Notes: The Good, the Bad, and the Grey of Targeted Advertising


The Good, the Bad, and the Grey of Targeted Advertising



As a consumer, do you see value in targeted advertising or are you creeped out by marketers tracking you across the internet?

In this episode of Privacy Abbreviated, hosts Catherine and Dona are joined by the host of the MarTech Podcast and founder of I Hear Everything, Ben Shapiro. Together, they discuss how small and medium businesses (SMBs) should use targeted advertising without crossing legal boundaries or scaring away customers. Ben offers insight into where he sees the marketing industry headed and how advertisers can prepare for emerging privacy laws. Listen now to learn how to provide continuous value to your audience, how to keep them engaged, and how to keep them coming back for more.

For more information about this episode, read the show notes here


Episode Show Notes: How Should You Present Scientific Evidence to Support Your Ad Claims?



Ad Watchers’ episode four of season two provides advertisers insights into presenting evidence to support a claim at NAD. Eric Unis, Senior Attorney at the National Advertising Division (NAD), is joined by colleague Annie Ugurlayan, NAD’s Assistant Director, to walk listeners through what to expect when presenting a claim substantiation case. 

Annie begins by explaining that no matter the claim type, the stronger it is, the stronger its supporting evidence must also be. She states that different types of evidence bear different weights. For instance, human trials are more persuasive than animal trials when supporting a claim regarding pharmaceuticals marketed toward people. Annie also points out that it isn’t just express claims that need substantiation. Implied claims hold the same burden of proof. She uses the example of a “nontoxic” claim which would lead consumers to expect no health risks, even transient risks, to occur from the use or misuse of the product. Companies that make such implied claims must be able to provide evidence to support them. 

Continue reading Episode Show Notes: How Should You Present Scientific Evidence to Support Your Ad Claims?


How Should You Present Scientific Evidence to Support Your Ad Claims?



Understanding how to present scientific evidence in a substantiation case can be difficult, especially when the data is complex or no industry standard exists.

In this episode of Ad Watchers, the hosts discuss a complex topic: how should marketers put scientific data to use? They answer this question by diving into different types of scientific evidence and which types of claims they support most effectively. For instance, they provide insight into when to bring forward an expert witness and the supplementary evidence needed to support their opinion. Statistician Tom Rosholt also joins them to share an analyst’s approach to presenting unbiased and reliable data. Listen now to learn what to expect when presenting a case at NAD.

For more information about this episode, read the show notes here.