FTC Fines App Developer for Violating Child Privacy Laws
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App developer Broken Thumbs has been fined $50,000 for violating child privacy laws, specifically, the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).
The company is responsible for the popular Emily’s Girl World app series, which collected thousands of email addresses from children younger than thirteen without getting parental permission, using apps such as “Emily’s Fashion and Shop,” “Emily’s Dress Up and Shop,” and “Emily’s Girl Talk.”
Broken Thumbs was also allowing its young users to share personal information on message boards included with the app, which is also a big no-no with the FTC. In addition to the hefty fine, the company will be required to delete all personal data and measures will be put in place to prevent the violation from re-occuring, though the exact specifics of further punishment are unclear.
According to Jon Leibovitz, FTC chairman, “The FTC’s COPPA Rule requires parental notice and consent before collecting children’s personal information online, whether through a website or a mobile app. Companies must give parents the opportunity to make smart choices when it comes to their children’s sharing of information on smartphones.”
$50,000 may sound like a lot of money, but in reality, it’s a slap on the wrist. Broken Thumbs’ apps have been downloaded thousands of times, and each features multiple in-app purchases, so in all likelihood, the company has made far more from its young victims and the email harvesting.
Hopefully, this will serve as a warning to both Broken Thumbs and other app developers. Someone is keeping an eye out, and there are consequences for violating privacy laws. The fine may be minuscule, but the public awareness that’s been generated is invaluable.
[via FTC.gov and Ars Technica]
