1. Many tech titans have been accused of invading children's privacy
Tiktok
In 2023, TikTok faced a significant $368 million fine for failing to adequately protect children's privacy [1]. The platform was found in violation of both GDPR and COPPA regulations, highlighting its shortcomings in safeguarding children's data.
Facebook was also in hot water in 2023. According to the FTC, Facebook lied to parents about how they could control who their children talked to on Messenger Kids. Facebook also shared children's data with other companies for commercial reasons, which violates COPPA and other privacy laws. [2]
Instagram had a problem in 2020 when it was discovered that they made accounts of children under the age of 18 public by default. They even allowed teenagers to open business accounts, revealing their phone numbers and email addresses. Instagram was fined $402 million in 2022 for failing to protect children's data. [3]
Youtube
In 2019, YouTube, which is owned by Google, was fined $170 million for violating COPPA. They used tools to gather information from children under the age of 13 without asking their parents. The US government ordered YouTube to develop a tool that allows channel owners to identify content intended for children. YouTube was also required to explain how they collect data and obtain parental consent. [4]
2. Zero-knowledge proof: Technology safeguarding children's privacy on social media
What is Zero-knowledge proof (ZKP)?
Zero-knowledge proof (ZKP) is an encryption technology that can help protect children's privacy on online platforms. It enables users to prove the authenticity of their personal information without disclosing the actual data to third parties.
This means that when children use online services, their accounts could be accurately verified in order to provide them with appropriate content recommendations, reducing the potential for abuse and privacy breaches in children's online experiences.
AesirX Shield Of Privacy: A shield that protects children in cyberspace
AesirX Shield of Privacy uses Concordium's Zero-Knowledge Proof technology to provide a novel approach to age verification - without ever jeopardizing user data or privacy. By uploading a government-issued form of identification to their wallet, AesirX Shield of Privacy users (including children) can drastically reduce the amount of data they disclose during online identity verification, regaining control over any sensitive information.
3. Use Case: Protecting Children's Privacy Online with AesirX Shield of Privacy
Meet Sarah, a vigilant parent who wants to ensure her child, Alex, enjoys a secure and private online experience. Here's how AesirX Shield of Privacy, powered by Concordium's innovative Zero-Knowledge Proof technology, helps protect children in various online scenarios:
1. Age Verification for Online Services
Sarah wants to make sure Alex doesn't access age-inappropriate content or services on online platforms. With AesirX Shield of Privacy, she securely verifies Alex's age without disclosing his birthdate. This ensures that Alex cannot access content or services meant for older users.
2. Online Gaming Safety
Online gaming platforms often have age restrictions for certain games or features. Sarah uses AesirX Shield of Privacy to verify Alex's age before granting access to age-restricted games. This enhances online gaming safety, ensuring Alex interacts with age-appropriate content.
3. Social Media Protection
Sarah understands the dangers of underage children using social networks intended for adults. When Alex wants to create a social media account, Sarah uses AesirX Shield of Privacy to verify his age, preventing him from accessing platforms that are not appropriate for his age and protecting him from online risks.
4. Secure Online Shopping
Sarah uses AesirX Shield of Privacy to verify Alex's age during online shopping to prevent him from making unauthorized purchases, especially for age-restricted products like alcohol or tobacco. This prevents Alex from making inappropriate purchases.
5. Safe Online Communication
Sarah also wants to make sure Alex communicates with peers his age online and avoids interactions with potentially harmful people. She employs AesirX Shield of Privacy to validate the age of Alex's online contacts, thereby increasing his online safety.
6. Privacy Protection
AesirX Shield of Privacy protects sensitive personal information such as birth dates and identification numbers from online exposure. This safeguards Alex against identity theft, fraud, and cyberbullying.
7. Preventing Unauthorized Access
AesirX Shield of Privacy enables Alex to securely access online platforms and services without revealing his private keys. Private keys, similar to complex passwords, are generated at random, granting users access to their Web3 Wallet and protecting them from theft and unauthorized access to their data and digital assets.
8. Limiting Exposure to Targeted Advertising
AesirX Shield of Privacy protects Alex from excessive tracking and targeting by online advertisers. This reduces their exposure to ads that may be inappropriate for his age, resulting in a safer online environment.
Read more:
The Alarming Situation of Personal Data Buying and Selling in Vietnam - How to Prevent It
With growing concerns about children's privacy violations on social media platforms, protecting children's personal information has become a top priority. ZKP technology is critical in improving user security, particularly for children. Implementing AesirX Shield Of Privacy powered by Concordium ZKP technology will contribute to a safer online environment while effectively protecting children's privacy.
Discover how AesirX Shield of Privacy makes the internet a safer place for kids at shield.aesirx.io. For personalized guidance and support, contact R Digital today!
