FTC Says Apps For Kids Providing Data

In a report released recently, the FTC said that when it comes to mobile applications aimed at kids there is "little, if any, information in the app marketplaces about the data collection and sharing practices of these apps" as privacy disclosure was lacking. The report, titled Mobile Apps for Kids: Current Privacy Disclosures are Disappointing (PDF), focused on disclosures to users regarding the data practices of apps aimed at children. The agency said that the staff will "evaluate whether the industry is moving forward to address the disclosure issues raised in this report," and determine whether there are violations of the Children's Online Protection Act (COPPA) "and whether enforcement is appropriate."