I'm aware that UBB.Threads has built in COPPA checking (for kids under 13) at sign in.

I'm wondering if anyone has any information on the participation of children under 18 at discussion forums dealing in explicit or adult content.

Let's say 15 or 16 years old?

My thought has been that those under 18 should not participate.

Here's my question. One of my websites deals with explicit discussion of adult subject matters. I've modified the COPPA thing to not allow anyone under 18.

A 15 year old registers, tells everyone he is 15 and participates in the discussions. This makes everyone uncomfortable.

In my concern both for the child and the site, I have highly restricted his activities and moderated all his postings.... prohibited him from sending and receiving PMs etc...

My fear is not so much him coming and reading. Kids do that I'm sure. But his participation could get him or us into trouble.

How should I play this? How do you keep kids out. Anyone in the "message board biz" have any info on the legalities of this in the United States?

Thanks for any info / insight you can offer.

Josh
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Wait, so the kid would have to have lied on the COPPA to have even registered, right? I think that puts you in the clear legally. Anyway, I, personally, would block that user's access right in any case. If they are a underaged user, then they won't be able to view it, fine. If they are over the age and are lying to make people feel uncomfortable or whatever, that's fine too, I wouldn't want them participating anyway.

---
Play the engine, not the game.

Children cannot enter into legally binding agreements or contracts, thus their response to COPPA probably won't mean anything if it were to ever come before a judge and jury.

I would not allow said user to access the sensitive forums, especially since they've publicly stated their age. I think allowing a person to do something against your COPPA rules in light of knowing their age could be very, very bad for you.

Doug
Moderator: Community Management
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Thanks guys.
You are right. Lie on the COPPA is breaking the rules.

Someone on my site (in a private forum) advised me to make printouts of the posts and my correspondence to him explaining why his access was restricted. Cover all bases.

This is an area of the "net" that scares me. I'd rather the kiddies stay out of what they shouldn't be into.

Thanks for the advice.

Josh
Measurection.com Admin | ThreadsDev.com Moderator
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My threads 'tweaking' abilities are for hire.

I agree, I'd block the user as well....