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Dear Amy: Why is it that sometimes when you try to send a comment to a Web site and follow all the directions, the site says “Sorry! You must be 13 years or older”? Kids 12 and under want to send in comments too! — Mary, Charleston, N.C.
Dear Mary: It may not seem fair to kids under 13 years of age, but Web sites must follow a special set of rules for collecting children's information. In 2000, the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act was enacted, which requires permission from parents before anyone under 13 years or age can submit personal information online such name, address, and phone number.
A lot of times, this information is required for registration with Web sites, meaning that no one under 13 years of age may register. However, some Web sites will allow children to register if they provide the e-mail address of a parent who can give permission. The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act was created to help parents keep their kids safe online, but it is still important to follow online safety rules. To learn how to be a safe surfer, check out www.4kids.org/safesurf. Surf's up, dudes!
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