Introduction

The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) mandates that online services must verify the age of users, particularly when collecting personal information from children under 13. Implementing effective age verification measures is essential for compliance and ensuring the protection of children’s privacy. Here are three diverse examples of how to implement age verification measures for COPPA compliance.

Example 1: Third-Party Age Verification Services

Utilizing a third-party age verification service can streamline the process of confirming a user’s age without directly collecting sensitive information. This is particularly useful for websites or applications that cater to a wider audience but need to ensure compliance with COPPA.

A third-party service like Yoti or AgeChecked can be integrated into your sign-up process. When a user attempts to create an account, they would be prompted to verify their age through the third-party service, which uses various methods such as ID verification or biometric checks. The results are then sent back to your platform, allowing you to proceed with the registration if the user is confirmed to be over 13.

Notes:

• Ensure that the third-party service is compliant with COPPA and has robust privacy policies.
• Consider the user experience to avoid friction during the registration process.

Example 2: In-Person Age Verification

For businesses that also have a physical presence, in-person age verification can be an effective way to comply with COPPA when offering online services. This method is particularly applicable to stores or venues that sell products or services aimed at both children and adults.

For instance, a toy store could require a parent or guardian to provide proof of age when registering a child for an online account. This could be done by showing an ID or birth certificate during a purchase or at a designated registration event. Once verified, the child could receive a unique code or link to use for online activities.

Notes:

• This method can have logistical challenges, such as requiring additional staff training and resources for in-person verification.
• Ensure to communicate clearly to parents about the verification process and its necessity.

Example 3: Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA)

Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) involves asking users questions that only they should know the answers to, which can be a less intrusive way to verify age. This method can be particularly effective in online games or educational platforms that appeal to children.

When a user attempts to register, they could be asked a series of questions about their previous account activities or preferences, alongside a standard question to confirm their age, such as