Markets Wired

In light of rapidly changing technology such as the increased use of smartphones and other devices to access websites and online services, as well as new methods for collecting and using information online, the Federal Trade Commission will host a public roundtable, “Protecting Kids’ Privacy Online: Reviewing the COPPA Rule,” on Wednesday, June 2, 2010 to explore whether to update its Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule. The Rule went into effect in 2000 and requires operators of websites and online services to obtain parental consent before collecting, using, or disclosing personal information from children under 13.

A copy of the agenda is at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/workshops/coppa/index.shtml. Members of the public and press who wish to participate but who cannot attend can view a live webcast at ftc.gov.

The Federal Trade Commission works for the consumer to prevent fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices and to provide information to help spot, stop, and avoid them. To file a complaint in English or Spanish, click http://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov or call 1-877-382-4357. The FTC enters Internet, telemarketing, identity theft, and other fraud-related complaints into Consumer Sentinel, a secure, online database available to more than 1,800 civil and criminal law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad. For free information on a variety of consumer topics, click http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/consumer.shtm.