Youtube Is Illegally Collecting Children's Data

A coalition of over 24 child care and protection groups has filed a complaint with the US Federal Trade Commission on the basis of allegation over Youtube's collection of children's data

 Youtube, world's biggest network for videos is in major trouble as it has been alleged by over 24 child protection and care groups that Youtube has been collecting data of kids which are aged under 13, something that voids that children's privacy law and child protection laws. 

The coalition includes Parents Across America, Center for Digital Democracy,  Common Sense media and others who have filed a complaint that Youtube violates COPPA (US Children's Online Privacy Protection Act). Google has collected numerous data of children under 13 years of age such as location, phone numbers and more without prior approval of the guardians, which is something that even Google's own terms forbid the company to do so.

"Google's violations are particularly egregious,"as stated in the complaint filed. "Google had actual knowledge of both the large number of child-directed channels on YouTube and the large numbers of children using YouTube."

“For years, Google has abdicated its responsibility to kids and families by disingenuously claiming YouTube — a site rife with popular cartoons, nursery rhymes, and toy ads — is not for children under 13,” -  Josh Golin, executive director CCFC. 

“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.”

 Although, spokesperson from Google has denied receiving off any sort of complain, stating that it is their top priority to protect kids and families.

The FTC complaint is 59 pages long and says: “YouTube also has actual knowledge that many children are on YouTube, as evidenced by disclosures from content providers, public statements by YouTube executives, and the creation of the YouTube Kids app”

“Google has the responsibility to be Coppa-compliant and ensure that children can safely watch the programs designed and promoted for kids. These practices present serious concerns that warrant the FTC’s attention.” - Katie McInnis, policy counsel for the Consumers Union

“It is time for Google to be completely transparent with all the facts and institute fundamentally responsible new policies moving forward to protect the privacy of kids. We fully expect Google to work closely with advocates and reach out to parents with information about parental controls, content and collection practices on YouTube so parents can make informed choices about what content they allow their kids to access and how to protect their privacy.”  - James Steyer, CEO Common Sense

Although Youtube is not the only one to be under fire for violating the data privacy of its users, Facebook has also been in the highlights for providing data to Cambridge Analytica, which compromised on data security of millions off users across the world and also resulted in loss of billions of dollars worth of stock for Facebook. The need of the hour is to increase scrutiny over websites to maintain check & balance to ensure privacy of people which are the main reason these companies have become multi billion dollar conglomerates.