COPPA and CIPA Explained for EdTech and Schools

COPPA focus

Applies to operators of online services directed to children under 13 (and certain knowledge standards). Parental consent, limited collection, and parental access rights are central themes — confirm FTC rules for your facts.

CIPA focus

CIPA addresses internet safety policies and filtering related to E-Rate. Schools own much of the policy work; vendors should support safe configuration without over-claiming CIPA certification.

EdTech control checklist

• Age-gating and education-primary modes
• Advertising restrictions where applicable
• Deletion/retention aligned to school year needs
• Sub-processor transparency for districts

How CyberSilo Helps

• Evidence mapping in CyberSilo CSA
• Detection and logging proof with ThreatHawk SIEM
• Advisory scoping — contact CyberSilo

Frequently Asked Questions

Does FERPA replace COPPA?

No — different regimes; schools and vendors may face both analyses.

Is CIPA a vendor certification?

Primarily a school/library funding condition; vendors enable controls.

International EdTech?

Also map GDPR children's rules when EU users are in scope.

Related Resources

• Privacy hub
• Consent management