FTC Penalizes Xanga.com $1 Million

While other consumer enemies are getting off the hook, the FTC was successful at making the folks behind Xanga.com pay.  Our friends at the Federal Trade Commission released a press release today.

“Xanga.com to Pay $1 Million for Violating Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule”

While there are some guys out there who are far worse than Xanga I have no patience for companies who turn a blind eye to child safety online. In this case, Xanga violated the Childrens’ Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998 or COPPA.

FTC Chairman Deborah Platt Majoras says…
“COPPA requires all commercial Web sites, including operators of social networking sites like Xanga, to give parents notice and obtain their consent before collecting personal information from kids they know are under 13. A million-dollar penalty should make that obligation crystal clear.”

The key to kids safetly online is education.  There are a number of sites devoted to protecting kids online. If you’re a parent check out the following…

And/Or

If you’re web site that collects personal information click here.