Child Protection Groups Accuse YouTube of Illegally Collecting Data on Minors
The fact that YouTube and other such online platforms
collect user data for advertising purposes is no surprise to anyone at this
point. We have come to expect it, and in most cases even agree that it is
necessary to some extent if these platforms are to survive and continue to be
free for users. Where the issue becomes decidedly hazier however is when it
applies to children.
According to a coalition of 23 child advocacy, consumer and privacy
groups which includes notable organisations such as the Campaign for a Commercial-Free
Childhood (CCFC) and the Center for Digital Democracy, YouTube have been
knowingly collecting the data of users under the age of 13 in what they allege
is a direct violation of child protection laws. The coalition has filed a
formal complaint with the US Federal Trade Commission outlining their case, in
which they assert that despite Google’s claims that the YouTube platform is
restricted to those aged 13 and above, they are fully aware that underage
individuals are bypassing these poorly-enforced restrictions and proceed in
gathering their data regardless. This data allegedly includes information
relating to the user’s location, device identifiers, and even phone numbers,
tracking them across different websites, apps and services without prior parental
consent. If true, this would indeed be a violation of the terms set out by the
US Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).
According to Josh Golin, Executive Director of the CCFC, one
need look no further than YouTube’s own content for evidence of this nefarious
practice.
“For years, Google has abdicated its responsibility to kids
and families by disingenuously claiming that YouTube - a site rife
with popular cartoons, nursery rhymes, and toy ads - is not for children under
13,” said Mr Golin. “Google profits immensely by delivering ads to kids and
must comply with Coppa. It’s time for the FTC to hold Google accountable for
its illegal data collection and advertising practices.”
Jeff Chester of the Center for Digital Democracy joined
Mr Golin in vocalising his criticism of the platform.
“Google has acted duplicitously by falsely claiming in its
terms of service that YouTube is only for those who are age 13 or older, while
it deliberately lured young people into an ad-filled digital playground,”
states Mr Chester.
“Just like Facebook, Google has focused its huge resources
on generating profits instead of protecting privacy.”
A YouTube spokesperson did respond to the allegations, though
their response offered little in the way of accountability or insight.
“While we haven’t received the complaint, protecting kids
and families has always been a top priority for us,” YouTube state. “We will
read the complaint thoroughly and evaluate if there are things we can do to
improve. Because YouTube is not for children, we’ve invested significantly
in the creation of the YouTube Kids app to offer an alternative specifically
designed for children.”
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Child Protection Groups Accuse YouTube of Illegally Collecting Data on Minors
Reviewed by Unknown
on
Friday, April 13, 2018
Rating:
Reviewed by Unknown
on
Friday, April 13, 2018
Rating:
Unknown
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