Reflections on International Data Protection Day: challenges in the privacy of kids & teens

In an interconnected world where information constantly flows through our devices, it is imperative to pay meticulous attention to the protection of our personal data. Confidentiality and information security are fundamental rights and essential pillars for building a trustworthy digital environment.

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According to Askids, the data & insights platform for the U18 segment, 67% of teenagers in Latin America, aged between 13 and 18, express concern about their privacy while navigating the internet. These connected youths, aware of the importance of safeguarding their personal information, reflect a growing awareness of digital security.

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At Kids Corp, we take pride in our KidSafe technology, carefully designed for the child audience. Our premise is to offer enriching and educational digital experiences without compromising children's privacy. How do we achieve this? By refraining from collecting personal data. Our focus is on providing safe and protected content, allowing children to explore the digital world responsibly.

Recent developments and updates

1. Regulatory stringency

In recent times, we have observed an increase in the stringency of privacy regulations in various jurisdictions. Countries and regions are implementing stricter laws to ensure that business entities adequately protect the data of their users, with a special emphasis on minors.

2. Security incidents and awareness

Unfortunately, we have also witnessed security incidents, highlighting the importance of data protection. These events underscore the need to implement robust measures to safeguard personal information and reinforce our commitment to digital security.

Commitment to privacy in an evolving digital environment

Currently, Generation Alpha, born from 2010 onwards, has seamlessly integrated online connections into their lives and relationships. In Latin America, 86% of these young individuals have access to smartphones that provide them with the ability to explore unimaginable content compared to previous generations.

In this context, children and adolescents receive a daily gift of which they may not be fully aware, but which significantly impacts their lives: "free" access to the internet, the largest library in human history. From “free” devices, they have the ability to learn, inform themselves, entertain, discover their passions, and develop interests early on.

The mention of “free” in quotes responds to an evident reality. Access to digital content materializes through two avenues: through direct payments, such as in-app purchases, games, websites, or subscriptions; or through brand advertising investments that fund access in exchange for promoting their products and services. It is this latter option that grants children valuable universal access to educational and entertaining tools, facilitating their learning, growth, and development.

Although certain segments of society persist in the prejudice that devices can be harmful to children by “hypnotizing” them, socially isolating them, or keeping them captive to harmful screens, the reality differs. When used appropriately, with parental guidance, screens play a vital role in play, studies, and socialization. Through them, children can stay in touch with friends, play, interact, and engage in joint activities.

However, behind this vast opportunity lies a huge responsibility for the entire industry to ensure that access occurs through secure connections for children. Currently, one in three online users is under 18, and although the internet was not conceived for them, various risks associated with online connectivity, such as exposure to inappropriate content, grooming, or minor surveillance, must be addressed seriously. We all must assume our responsibility to prevent these risks.

Governments and NGOs must establish regulations and laws that protect data privacy. Content creators must develop high-quality materials tailored to each age group, and companies must understand and promote best practices, investing in technology that ensures safe and enjoyable experiences for children. In this context, the role of each industry participant is essential. Digital advertising must remain relevant, and investments must continue to grow, as there are more people willing to view ads to access content than those who can or prefer to pay for them.

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