Keywords
internet, children, privacy, regulate internet, protection, Child Online Privacy Protection Act, COPPA, pornography
Abstract
This Note first presents a historical background of media regulations protecting children, and introduces COPPA. Next, it presents the arguments fueling the debate about who should regulate the Internet - the government or non-government entities. It then argues that in light of COPPA's shortcomings and faulty attempts to emulate regulations of other media, the government should step back and allow parents to maintain the bulk of regulatory responsibility. Finally, it suggests a future course of action for successfully regulating the Internet to protect children's privacy while taking into account the Internet's dissimilarity to previously regulated media. This Note concludes that although it may not be the perfect solution, giving responsibility for protecting children to parents and the Internet industry will best accomplish the goals underlying COPPA.
Recommended Citation
Melanie L. Hersh,
Is COPPA a Cop Out? The Child Online Privacy Protection Act As Proof That Parents, Not Government, Should Be Protecting Children's Interests on the Internet,
28 Fordham Urb. L.J. 1831
(2001).
Available at: https://ir.lawnet.fordham.edu/ulj/vol28/iss6/4