An Unfair Game of Virtual Hide-and-Go-Seek: The Passive Collection of Children's Information Online

Abstract

In this paper, I examine the regulatory deficiencies surrounding children’s online privacy. Specifically, I assess how the passive collection of children’s information through their parents is permitted under the current legislation. I examine two online activities of parents that jeopardize their children’s privacy: (1) “sharenting” on social media platforms; and (2) the use of pregnancy and parenting mobile applications. I outline the consequences children face because of this unconsented passive collection of their information enabled by their parents’ technology use. Lastly, I call for more stringent regulation. We need legislation that explicitly differentiates children’s privacy interests and offers specific safeguards for them to preserve their digital identity and overall safety.