The Opt Out: School devices are sharing your family's data, but you can stop them

Reclaim your family's online privacy: The Opt-Out guide.

A six-year-old's seemingly innocent request for an in-app purchase on their school-provided iPad highlights a critical issue: the pervasive collection of children's data by the advertising industry. While seemingly harmless math games often require in-app purchases, these actions feed a multi-billion dollar surveillance-based advertising system, collecting sensitive information including location and device details.

Parents often lack the time or expertise to navigate complex privacy policies and understand the extent of online surveillance. The sheer volume of devices in schools – with Google Chromebooks dominating the market – exacerbates the problem, exposing millions of children to data collection practices.

While legislative action is crucial, proactive steps can significantly improve children's online safety. This guide offers practical strategies to minimize data collection on school-issued devices.

The Surveillance Advertising Landscape

Personalized advertising relies on tracking technologies that monitor online activity across apps and devices. Tech giants like Google, Meta, and Amazon utilize embedded code to gather this data, creating detailed user profiles for targeted advertising. This system, generating billions in revenue, operates with minimal protection for children.

Existing legislation, such as COPPA, offers insufficient safeguards. Numerous companies circumvent these regulations, collecting children's data without parental consent. Data brokers further complicate the issue, selling this information to various entities, including criminal organizations.

Taking Control: Practical Steps for Parents

The tide is turning, with increased awareness among teens and growing calls for tech accountability. While comprehensive federal solutions are still developing, parents can take immediate action:

1. Understand App Payment Models: Free apps with in-app purchases often prioritize revenue generation over privacy. Paid apps, while not entirely free from surveillance, tend to be more transparent about their features and data practices. Utilize resources like Common Sense Media for independent app reviews.

2. Limit Screen Time: Reducing screen time directly minimizes the opportunity for data collection. Utilize built-in screen time management tools on devices like iPads and Androids.

3. Disable Targeted Advertising: Although difficult to find, options exist to disable personalized advertising on most devices. For Android and Chromebooks, access Google account settings to manage ad settings and data deletion. On iPads (iPadOS 14.5 and later), adjust tracking settings to deny app tracking requests.

4. Consider Alternative Devices: For younger children, consider privacy-focused phones like those offered by Gabb Wireless, which eliminate access to social media and internet browsing.

5. Utilize Parental Control Apps: If a smartphone is necessary, parental control apps like OurPact can help manage screen time, filter content, and provide location alerts.

6. Stay Informed: Keep abreast of legislative developments and FTC actions regarding data privacy. The growing awareness and advocacy efforts are creating positive change.

By implementing these strategies, parents can take significant steps toward protecting their children's online privacy and mitigating the risks of data surveillance.

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