Children nowadays spend less time playing outside and more time in front of screens, whether it be a computer screen, television screen, a handheld game or simply on their phones. This naturally means children are often on websites or using the Internet to access their favorite games. Large companies often ask children to enter personal information about themselves, such as their names and email addresses. Companies often compile this data and sell the information in the form of statistics to other companies to assess the main activities children are involved in on the Internet. This information helps companies determine the most useful methods of advertising as well as developing trends. Many, including Markey, consider this to be an unfair and deceptive practice.
Democratic Representative Edward Markey says he will propose a law that would require websites directed at children under the age of 13 to obtain parental consent before releasing personal information. Markey believes this will make the Internet an overall safer place for children.
