In India, increasingly people are utilizing digital services and the internet. As children’s information is being collected online in this rapidly digitalizing world, their protection is a priority. In 2024, the Indian government passed the “Digital Personal Data Protection Act” (DPDP Act 2024), which incorporates new rules and processes to protect children’s personal data.
Importance of protecting children’s data
In today’s time, children’s data is being rapidly collected on online platforms. Personal information about them, such as name, age, hobbies, and other sensitive data, can be collected through websites and apps. Given the age and mental state of children, their data can be misused. The security together with privacy of data possesses critical importance for users. Strict data protection measures exist under the new law because child online security demands it.
Main provisions of the new law
1. Parental consent for children’s data
Under this new law, if a company collects children’s data, they will first have to obtain permission from the parents or guardians. This will ensure that children’s data is not misused and their private life is protected.
2. Strict rules on data collection for children
The law ensures that children’s data can be collected only for a limited purpose. Any app or website will be able to obtain only that information from children, which is necessary to improve their experience.
3. Special privacy policies regarding children’s data
Our company will establish different privacy policies to protect children’s personal data throughout its collection and utilization process. Youngsters can find information through separate privacy guidelines about data protection measures and use methods.
4. Strict punishment for data security violation
If there is any lapse or violation in the security of children’s data, then there is a provision for strict punishment for it. This rule will ensure that companies give priority to the security of children’s data and avoid any violation.
5. Restrictions on transfer of data
Under this law, children’s data can only be sent to countries where similar rules apply to protect children’s data. Its purpose is to prevent children’s data from being misused in other countries.
Why are these changes necessary to protect children’s data in India?
Usage of the internet is growing at a very fast rate in India, particularly among youth and children. These online platforms like social media, online games, and learning apps offer an entertaining and educative experience for children. But simultaneously, these platforms also harvest children’s data, which can be dangerous to their privacy and security. Hence, stringent laws and provisions about the protection of children’s data were needed.
Conclusion
The Government of India has introduced this legislation to safeguard data belonging to children. The legislation aims to protect children both online and provides parents both authority and duty to safeguard their children’s digital presence. The Digital India initiative receives high priority along with child protection through this law to establish secure conditions for children’s engagement in the online realm.
FAQs
What is the new law protecting children’s data in India?
The Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2024 (DPDP Act 2024) serves as the new legislation for digital child data protection through strict guidelines.
What is required for collecting children’s data under this law?
The law mandates that parental consent must be obtained before collecting any data from children, ensuring that their privacy is protected.
How is children’s data usage restricted?
Under the legislation organizations must only collect essential data from children. Businesses cannot obtain superfluous or paucity of child-related data.
Are there any sanctions against breaches of children’s data protection?
Yes, strict punishment for those companies that use children’s data incorrectly or don’t secure their data ensures responsibility.
Is data about children shared with other nations?
Transfer of children’s data to nations with similar data protection legislation fulfilling the international privacy standards is feasible.
