Children's Advertising Review Unit- Advertising Self Regulation, Online Privacy and More.

Apps for Children On the Rise

2012-01-19T11:21:00.000-05:00

As mobile and tablet technology become more widespread the children's app market will inevitably grow as well. Many even predict children will eventually read textbooks via tablet. Check out this article in Macleans discussing the inevitability of a booming Apps market.

CARU to Speak at ACI's Advertising and Marketing Conference

2012-01-06T11:18:00.000-05:00

Senior Staff Attorney, Angela Tiffin will be speaking at the American Conference Institute's (ACI) Advertising Law conference on January 23rd and January 24th.

The conference will address the industry and how to ensure that your company remains competitive and compliant. In addition to CARU other leaders like the FTC and the California Office of Consumer Privacy will speak on how to successfully implement privacy protocols as part of advertising strategies.

For more information about this conference, visit ACI's website here.

CARU Speaks at the New York City Bar Association's Consumer Affairs Committee

2012-01-05T16:31:00.003-05:00

Andra Dallas will be addressing the Consumer Affairs Committee of the New York City Bar Association on January 11, 2012. She will be educating them about CARU and updating them on its recent cases.

The Consumer Affairs Committee of the New York City Bar Association addresses current consumer protection issues on the national, state and local levels. Recent topics include consumer credit and debt, the new Consumer Financial Protection Board, updates on consumer protection legislation and reform on the state and local levels, privacy, and advertising and marketing law. The committee often collaborates with other City Bar committees, particularly in opining on state and local legislative issues and organizing programs.

For more information about the Consumer Affairs Committee of the New York City Bar Association click here.

CARU Hosts its 2011 Supporter's Council Meeting

2011-12-09T12:52:00.000-05:00

Davis & Gilbert LLP hosted CARU's 2011 Supporter's Council meeting yesterday at the New York office. CARU's Supporters met to catch up with each other and CARU's staff. Several of CARU's academic advisors presented current research relevant to children and CARU's staff discussed potential upcoming changes to COPPA as well as recent cases and recurring issues.

CARU truly appreciates the support it receives from all of its members. Your insight is invaluable. As always it was a pleasure meeting with you yesterday and we hope to see you again soon for our California Conference. Details to follow.

FTC Extends Deadline for Comments on Proposed Amendments to the Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule Until December 23, 2011

2011-11-29T15:37:00.000-05:00

The Federal Trade Commission has extended its deadline for the public to submit comments on proposed amendments to the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) until December 23, 2011. COPPA gives parents control over what personal information may be collected from children under 13. The FTC has proposed amendments to COPPA to ensure that the rule remains relevant as new technologies evolve.

Click HERE to read more about this on the FTC's website.

Facebook Settles FTC Charges of Deception Regarding Privacy Promises

2011-11-29T15:33:00.000-05:00

Facebook has agreed to settle deception charges by the Federal Trade Commission. Facebook allegedly promised its consumers that they could keep their information on Facebook private, and then allowed it to be shared and made public. Click HERE to read the rest of the article on the FTC's website.

Apps Will Soon Get Ratings Similar to Video Games

2011-11-29T15:26:00.001-05:00

Mobile apps and games for smartphones and tablets will soon be carrying age-based ratings courtesy of the ESRB. Visit USA TODAY to learn more about what mobile app ratings will entail.

Media Companies Move Into The Children's App Market

2011-11-21T16:05:00.000-05:00

Image Courtesy Bright Star Care

If you have any tablet or smartphone and any children you probably know who really owns these devices...your children. That's why media companies have begun moving into the lucrative market of children's apps. Click HERE to read more.

Are Parents Helping Their Children Sneak Onto Facebook?

2011-11-03T11:53:00.000-04:00

This probably comes as no surprise to you but there may actually be kids on Facebook. Check out this CNN article for more details on a recent study that was done!

Thanks for Making CARU's 2011 East Coast Conference Such a Success!

2011-10-18T11:10:00.002-04:00

Thank you for attending CARU's Annual Conference. We hope to see you again next year!

Interesting article in the New York Times regarding children on Facebook

2011-10-12T12:25:00.000-04:00

Click HERE to go to the New York Times to read.

YPulse Stops by CARU's 2011 Conference

2011-10-11T15:53:00.002-04:00

Ypulse stopped by CARU's Annual Conference last week to get the scoop on the updates to the COPPA rule and learn about the latest with the Children’s Food and Beverage Advertising Initiative (CFBAI) and self-regulation of food advertising. Visit Ypulse to hear what it learned at our conference to help youth marketers stay up-to-date…

CARU Press: Nope, Bieber Won't Show Up at Your Movie!

2011-06-30T14:09:00.000-04:00

CARU recently closed a case regarding a commercial for Justin Bieber's movie, Never Say Never. CARU believes the :60 second spot misled fans to think that Justin Bieber may show up at hundreds of screenings of the film. Check out bNet's article on CARU's decision.

'My Plate' Replaces USDA Food Pyramid

2011-06-14T11:12:00.000-04:00

Gone are the days of the Pyramids. With obesity concerns on the rise, the US Department of Agriculture launched its new visual guide designed to help Americans eat more balanced diets.

Learn more about My Plate replacing the Food Pyramid HERE.

CARU's First West Coast Conference is a Success!

2011-05-23T13:00:00.000-04:00

Thanks to everyone who made it to CARU's First West Coast Conference last week! We hope it was informative and fun for all who attended!

Underage Facebok Users Raise Concerns

2011-03-14T11:29:00.000-04:00

Check out this New York Times article about young users on Facebook.

Press About CARU's Emmy Nomination: Adlaw By Request

2011-03-01T10:45:00.000-05:00

CARU received a nice mention in Adlaw By Request last week.

"The role of self-regulation is partially educational. Wayne Keeley's CARU has demonstrated once again why the self-regulatory body he heads up is relevant and focused on ensuring that the educational mission is not lost in the day-to-day cases they hear. CARU has produced a Public Service Campaign entitled “Do You Know Where Your Children Are…On The Internet?” And, with Mr. Keeley's background as a film director, CARU ended up producing something good enough to be nominated for an Emmy Award in the Public Service Campaign category."

Keep your fingers crossed for your friends over at CARU!

CARU is Nominated for an Emmy!

2011-02-22T16:40:00.000-05:00

CARU is extremely pleased to announce that our Public Service Campaign “Do You Know Where Your Children Are…On The Internet?” was nominated for an Emmy Award in the 54^th Annual New York Emmy Awards, which focuses on News, Documentaries and Public Service Campaigns. We were nominated in the Public Service Campaign category. (PSAs are eligible for Emmys because of their value to community service and awareness).

Winners will be announced at a Black Tie Gala on April 3, 2011 at The Marriott Marquis in Manhattan. There were approximately 2,000 entries overall and 500 were chosen in 120 categories.

Keep your fingers crossed for CARU!

And if you have not seen the PSA yet, be sure to check it out on CARU's YouTube Page!

Press About CARU's Santa Tips!

2010-12-22T11:17:00.000-05:00

We're so happy with the amount of coverage CARU's Santa Tips has gotten, we hope that it has made parents more vigilant about what to look out for on Christmas and Holiday themed websites.

CARU's Tips have been featured on several websites, which include: NaplesNews, NWA, WIVB, WalletPop, TucsonCitizen, Virginia's BBB, Spokane's BBB, and MomsLikeMe!

CARU's Wayne Keeley Interviwed by CBS News at 5

2010-12-22T11:06:00.000-05:00

CARU was interviwed by CBS news correspondent, Cindy Hsu in a feature about CARU's Santa Tips for CBS News at 5.

CARU's Recommends Checking Privacy Policies Twice Before Allowing Kids on Santa Websites

2010-12-22T10:40:00.000-05:00

More than 60 domain names have been registered in the name of Santa Claus, offering children a wide range of opportunities to persuade St. Nick via email that they were not at all naughty in 2010.

Before allowing children to share any personal information with a “Letter to Santa” Website,however, the Children’s Advertising Review Unit (CARU) recommends that adults carefully review such sites to determine who is seeking the information, how it will be used and whether it will be shared with third parties.

“Even Santa is required to comply with CARU’s Online Privacy Protection guidelines and the federal Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act,” said Wayne J. Keeley, CARU’s director. All Websites directed to children – or Websites designed with a special children’s section –should have a privacy policy that explains the site’s information collection practices. The privacy policy should include the name of the company and the company’s complete contact information. It should also state whether the company shares information with third parties, including advertisers, and whether the company publically discloses the information or retains the information for any future purpose.

CARU offers the following ‘Dear Santa’ site review tips:

- Websites directed to children should not ask a child to disclose more information than is reasonably necessary to participate in the activity – a first name and email address, for instance.

- Limit the personal information children share with Santa and omit physical addresses, Santa already knows where all the children live.

- Check Websites for unwelcome content. Some sites are geared toward adults and may contain language or advertising adults may not want children to see.

- Since hyperlinks can allow children to move seamlessly from one site to another, investigate the hyperlinks to assure children don’t access inappropriate content.

CARU Staffers attend K.I.D.S. Gala at Cipriani as Guests of Bandai Foundation

2010-12-03T12:07:00.001-05:00

CARU was pleased to attend K.I.D.S. 25th Anniversary Charitable Gala on December 1st, 2010, hosted by Gayle King, editor-at-large for O, The Oprah Magazine, and featuring keynote speaker Newark Mayor Cory Booker.

The event, which took place at Cipriani Dolci in New York City, honored Sears Holding Corporation's John Goodman, Perry Ellis Corporation's Oscar Feldenkreis and Soles4Souls' founder Wayne Elsey, among others.

For more information about K.I.D.S., visit its website here.

CARU's 2010 Conference- Thanks to All Who Could Attend!

2010-12-02T16:36:00.001-05:00

CARU Featured in Prominent Connecticut Newspaper, News Times

2010-09-23T10:55:00.000-04:00

Image Courtesy: NewsTimes.com

Connecticut's Newspaper, News Times, discussed CARU's public service announcement campaign. In an article entitled, "Local Kids Send Message About Internet Safety," sisters Chayce and Kylie Schultz, two children featured in CARU's PSAs are speaking out about the dangers of the Internet. CARU's Director, Wayne Keeley was also interviewed. He was quoted as saying:

"One of the biggest problems today is the growth of the Internet,'' Keeley said. "We wanted to raise the awareness and prod parents with the question, `Do you know where your children are ... on the Internet?' "

Check out NewsTimes.com to read the rest of the article.

Y-Pulse Mentions CARU's PSA

2010-08-31T11:21:00.000-04:00

Y-Pulse, a website, which serves as a guide to youth via news, commentary, events, research & strategy, mentioned CARU yesterday:

"What parents don't 'like' about Facebook 'Like' (Data mining. Two Los Angeles parents are leading a lawsuit claiming the feature is being used to exploit minors for commercial purposes. Wonder if we'll see more of this parental activism after CARU airs its first PSA addressing internet safety issues."

If you haven't done so yet, please check out CARU's PSA campaign at our YouTube channel.

More Ink About CARU's PSAs on Ad Age

2010-08-24T14:18:00.000-04:00

Advertising Age, an online source for marketing and media news, wrote up a piece about CARU's PSA campaign. The feature explained the PSAs and even quoted CARU's very own Director, Wayne Keeley,

"The campaign was created with a twofold purpose in mind," said CARU Director Wayne J. Keeley in a statement. "First, as an awareness vehicle for parents to think about where their children may be surfing and, second, to direct them to CARU for more information about Internet safety."

We are so grateful for all of the support we have received from the industry, including Ad Age for helping us get the word out about the importance of internet safety.

CARU is mentioned in the New York Times...AGAIN!

2010-08-24T14:11:00.000-04:00

On August 23, CARU was mentioned in the Webdenda section of the New York Times in an article entitled:"Accounts and People of Note in the Ad Industry."

The article states:

"Children’s Advertising Review Unit of the Council of Better Business Bureaus, New York, introduced its first public service announcements. The campaign, created internally, carries the theme “Do you know where your children are on the Internet?” The ads feature Catherine Hicks, who for many years played the wife and mother, Annie Camden, on the television series “7th Heaven.” The unit is part of the self-regulatory process for advertising aimed at children."

More Press About CARU's Public Service Announcement Campaign!

2010-08-18T14:35:00.000-04:00

Image Courtesy: Hubpages.com

CARU is so pleased that so many wonderful media outlets have been helping us get the word out about the importance of internet safety. The latest mention CARU received can be seen on Teen and Child Safe Internet Solutions.

CARU's PSA Campaign Getting Press

2010-08-13T14:38:00.000-04:00

The Children's Advertising Review Unit's Public Service Announcement has been getting a ton of press lately. The spots have been featured numerous times over the past couple of weeks on ABC's Good Morning America, Regis and Kelly and Rachel Ray. They have aired on Discovery Kids several times as well.

Even online news sources like the Mississippi Daily has featured CARU's campaign. Check out what MS Digital Daily had to say about it here.

Better Business Bureau and WOMMA Present Webinar on Aligning Legal, Social Media and Marketing

2010-08-02T11:56:00.000-04:00

The Better Business Bureau and Word of Mouth Marketing Association present the new webinar series "Compliant & Successful - Aligning Marketing & Legal Around Word of Mouth & Social Media Marketing."

Today’s social media environment is forcing even the most progressive companies to re-think how to meet changing legal/regulatory requirements while addressing the real time needs of their customers and consumers. For many companies, establishing best practices, policies and protocols are lagging in the wake of the consumer controlled social web.

Webinars will be held July 29, August 3, and August 5 at 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM CDT. CARU will be presenting during Webinar 3 on August 5 at 1pm CST: What is on the Horizon: Privacy, Regulated Industries, Marketing to Children and More.

Key Takeaways will include:

See how the future of privacy effects your future marketing plans
Gain insights into how regulated industries are adapting to today’s marketing landscape
Understand why marketing to children is a hot button issue for regulators and what changes in marketing compliance are forthcoming.

For more information and registration: http://wommabbb.eventbrite.com/.

Mom Logic Features the Children's Advertising Review Unit

2010-07-28T16:29:00.000-04:00

Getty Images

Mom Logic, a website featuring articles that "Mom's are talking about," was kind enough to share a bit about CARU's latest campaign with their readers to get parents involved in their children's internet safety.

Check out the article here and find out CARU's tips to keep your children safe on the internet this summer.

CARU's Public Service Announcement Appears During Good Morning America

2010-07-20T11:43:00.000-04:00

CARU's PSA appeared during Good Morning America this morning. The announcement promotes children's safety on the internet and encourages parents to get involved. To learn more, parents can go to CARU's new parent's corner to learn about how to keep their children safe on the internet.

Visit CARU's YouTube page to watch our Public Service Announcement.

Children's Online Privacy and Internet Safety: CARU: Children's Advertis...

2010-07-16T12:21:00.000-04:00

CARU is pleased to announce the launch of its Public Service Announcement and our very own YouTube page.

CARU's First West Coast Conference!

2010-07-16T12:19:00.000-04:00

CARU was pleased to hold its first conference in Los Angeles, California this past month. CARU's director, Wayne Keeley, Associate Director, Phyllis Spaeth, and Staff Attorney Andra Dallas ventured out to the West coast. The half-day event was free and covered potential changes to the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act. CARU explored issues raised by the Rule review at the FTC's COPPA roudtable in D.C., including possible changes to the definition of Personally Identifiable Information as well as the application of the terms internet and website to new devices and technologies. CARU also provided an overview of what we do and our Guidelines for those who were unfamiliar with CARU.

West Coast Workshop on COPPA and CARU! June 15!

2010-06-04T12:11:00.002-04:00

Save the Date! Come meet CARU and learn about the upcoming revisions to COPPA and more about the Children's Advertising Review Unit. Register soon as space is limited.

Open to members and non-members. And best of all? It's free! We hope to see you soon. Click the image below for more information.

CARU Attended K.I.D.S. 25th Anniversary Luncheon to Honor Women in Industry

2010-06-03T16:22:00.000-04:00

CARU Staff Attorneys, Andra Dallas and Katie Berwitt were pleased to attend K.I.D.S. (A non-profit organization, which raises money for Kids in Distressed Situations) fourth annual luncheon today honoring women in industry and celebrating 25 years. Journalist, Roz Abrams emceed the event and Silda Spitzer gave the keynote address.

Since 1985, K.I.D.S. has reached out to more than 64 million children in need by distributing more than a half billion dollars worth of new merchandise. To learn more about the organization visit http://www.kidsdonations.org/.

CARU Attended FTC's Roundtable to Review Whether Technology Changes Warrant Changes to the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act

2010-06-03T16:15:00.001-04:00

CARU's Associate Director, Phyllis Spaeth spoke on a roundtable panel about the "Actual Knowledge" standard in Today's Online Environment. CARU's Director, Wayne Keeley and staff attorney, Angela Tiffin also attended this important meeting. In light of rapidly changing technology , the Federal Trade Commission hosted a public roundtable, “Protecting Kids’ Privacy Online: Reviewing the COPPA Rule,” on June 2, 2010 to explore whether to update the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule. The Rule was enacted in 2000 and requires Web site operators to obtain parental consent before collecting, using, or disclosing personal information from children under 13. Other Roundtable topics included:

Whether the Rule should be applied to emerging media such as mobile devices, interactive television, and interactive gaming;
Potential expansion of the Rule to cover more items of information that might be collected from children; and,
A review of the parental verification methods used by Web site operators.

CARU Speaking Engagement: Direct Marketing Association Webinar: Marketing to Children

2010-05-19T12:30:00.000-04:00

CARU will participate in a webinar for the Direct Marketing Association entitled, Marketing to Children, Elementary Do’s and Don’ts on Thursday, May 20^th. Staff Attorney, Andra Dallas will represent CARU at the event.

Click here for registration information – FREE for DMA members!

CARU Speaking Engagement: Privacy and Data Security Issues Related to Marketing Minors

2010-05-19T12:28:00.000-04:00

CARU Staff Attorney, Andra Dallas will join Phyllis Marcus from the FTC and Dana Rosenfeld from Kelley Drye on a panel entitled Privacy and Data Security Issues Related to Marketing to Minors. This panel will take place on Wednesday, May 19^th in Washington, DC at the law offices of Sullivan & Worcester, and is being presented by the Federal Communications Bar Association.

Belated Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-10T12:28:00.002-04:00

There are so many wonderful Mommies out there! We wish all of you a belated Happy Mother's Day! You have the hardest job of 'em all!

FCBA Privacy and Data Security Committee and Young Lawyers Committee Brown Bag Luncheon

2010-05-05T15:15:00.000-04:00

CARU will be attending the FCBA's Privacy and Data Security Committee and Young Lawyer Committee's brown bag luncheon. Privacy and data security issues related to marketing to minors will be discussed. See below for further details.

Date/Time: Wednesday, May 19, 12:15 - 2:00 p.m.

Location: Sullivan & Worcester LLP, 1666 K Street, NW, Washington, DC 20006

Topic: Privacy and Data Security Issues Related to Marketing to Minors:
Marketing to minors is under increased scrutiny by the FTC, FCC, State Attorneys General, and legislators across the country. To advise clients, legal counsel must be familiar with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) Rule (currently the subject of a wholesale review by the FTC), as well as other federal and state regulatory schemes, including the Telephone Consumer Protection Act and Michigan’s and Utah’s Child Protection Registries. Our panel of experts will discuss the complex regulatory and enforcement landscape that faces media and communications companies and other businesses wishing to reach children, tweens and teens via email, Twitter, text messages and other emerging technologies.

Speakers: Phyllis Marcus, Division of Advertising Practices, FTC; Dana Rosenfeld, Kelley Drye, (who helped to author COPPA rules now in effect); and a representative of CARU, the self-regulatory body of the Council of Better Business Bureaus. (Additional speakers TBD.)

CARU Mentioned in the New York Times!

2010-03-22T15:44:00.000-04:00

I know we're a little late on this but last month CARU was mentioned in the New York Times!

Our own, Wayne Keeley was even quoted.

“Especially where advertising is concerned, children have certain vulnerabilities because of their age and how they perceive things, their cognitive abilities,” said Wayne J. Keeley, director for the program.

Click HERE to read the entire article!

CARU Attended Toy Fair 2010

2010-03-04T12:58:00.001-05:00

CARU attended Toy Fair again in February 2010.

Toy Fair is the largest international toy trade show in the Western Hemisphere where the newest and hottest products in the children's entertainment marketplace are exhibited. It is the premier meeting place for manufacturers, retailers, importers, licensors and reps from around the world.

Thanks to everyone who met with us! We had a great time and hope you all enjoyed learning more about CARU's mission.

Check out our photos!

CARU To Participate in ABA Teleconference

2010-02-17T10:14:00.000-05:00

CARU Staff Attorney Andra Dallas will participate in an ABA Teleconference, What Companies Need to Know NOW About Social Networking.

The teleconference will take place on February 25 at 1:30 ET.

Click here to register: http://www.abanet.org/cle/programs/t10lrd1.html

CARU Shoots PSA with Catherine Hicks and Siberian Films

2010-01-19T12:26:00.000-05:00

CARU would like to send a special thank you out to Catherine Hicks for supporting CARU's mission and starring in our Public Service Campaign! We look forward to sharing the finished product with you soon! Thanks also to Siberian Films who came and shot the campaign for us!

Check out this behind-the-scenes slideshow!

CARU to speak at ACI's Advertising Law Conference on January 26th

2010-01-11T14:57:00.000-05:00

On January 26, CARU Staff Attorney, Andra Dallas will be speaking at ACI’s Advertising Law Conference on a panel entitled, “Connecting Safely with Consumers via the Exploding Popularity of Social Networking Sites.”

Andra will be joined by Andy Zaffron, General Counsel, Sony Online Entertainment; Addie Swartz, CEO, Beacon Street Girls; and Dana Lira, Vice President, Business & Legal Affairs, Warner Home Video.

To receive a special discount, mention the code 823L10.S when registering! Click Here to register.

CARU Prepares to Shoot Public Service Announcment in L.A. This Week!

2010-01-11T12:27:00.001-05:00

CARU is pleased to announce that it will be shooting its Public Service Announcement to help spread awareness of the importance of children's safety on the internet.

The shoot will take place this week in Los Angeles. Catherine Hicks, from 7th Heaven and cult classic Peggy Sue Got Married, will be starring in the campaign in an effort to help CARU's mission. We will be shooting at Grapevine Studios, one of CARU's many valued supporters. CARU's director, and Emmy award winner, will be directing! Wish us luck! Break a leg, CARU staff!

CARU Speaks at Community Board in Manhattan

2009-12-11T10:50:00.000-05:00

CARU staff attorney Andra Dallas gave a presentation to Community Board 1, serving lower Manhattan on Monday, December 7^th. Andra spoke to the Board’s Youth Committee about the importance of teaching children about understanding advertising and safe online practices. District Manager Noah Pfefferblit remarked, “thank you for your informative presentation to our Youth Committee members,” and offered the Board’s assistance if they “can be helpful to the important efforts at the Children's Advertising Review Unit.”

Are you interested in having a CARU staff member visit your community board? Contact adallas@caru.bbb.org.

CARU Participates in the Food Institute Webinar November 14th, 2009

2009-12-01T11:26:00.000-05:00

On November 14th, 2009, Tina Poturica-O'Neill of CARU took part in a webinar hosted by the Food Institute entitled Advertising to Children: Successfully Meeting the Challenges. Co-panelists included Elaine Kolish of The Children's Food and Beverage Initiative and John Feldman, Partner at Reed Smith. This webinar, moderated by Dr. James Tillotson of Tufts University, provided guidelines to companies on how to create truthful, accurate and acceptable advertising directed to children.

CARU in the News! CARU Cites Skechers Ad as Too Cool for School

2009-12-01T11:24:00.000-05:00

Image:Skechers

CARU was recently written up in the news on BNET for one of its recent cases with Skechers.

CARU was concerned that one reasonable takeaway message children may have after viewing the subject commercial is that wearing Skechers' Hy-Tops will make them popular. CARU’s Guidelines state in part that product presentation should not “mislead children about benefits from use of the product. Such benefits may include, but are not limited to, the acquisition of status, popularity … .”

Visit BNET to read more about this case.

CARU Attended the Promotional Marketing Association Conference 2009

2009-11-23T11:42:00.000-05:00

Wayne Keeley and Andra Dallas participated in the PMA’s 31^st Annual Promotions Marketing Law Conference in Chicago, IL on November 5-6. The conference had over 500 attendees from all over the world. Topics at the conference included the FTC’s Revised Endorsement Guides, Sweepstakes, Marketing to Children, and Behavior Advertising, in addition to many others.

CARU's Director Explains What You Should Know About Online Gaming

2009-11-18T10:04:00.001-05:00

Visit the BBB's Video Player to watch CARU's Director, Wayne Keeley explain the importance of children being able to distinguish ads on online gaming sites. While you're there you can also view many other interesting videos.

Photos from CARU's 2009 Conference

2009-10-16T11:55:00.002-04:00

CARU's Webinar with the Toy Industry Association

2009-10-15T12:25:00.000-04:00

As part of its efforts to educate representatives of industry – and those who communicate on their behalf – about responsible communications with children, CARU has collaborated with the Toy Industry Association to create informational webinars on topics that affect children's advertisers, including online children's privacy, adequacy of disclosures, and depicting products in a truthful and accurate fashion.

Please visit http://education.toyassociation.org and search for "CARU" under the "Education" page of the TIA website) to learn more about a webinar that was held last week to introduce TIA members to CARU and to provide an overview of our mission, mandate and Guidelines; additional sessions are being scheduled to go into greater detail on specific topics.

TIA charges $49 for non-member access to the webinar.

See a Preview of CARU's Presentation Below:

Caru Tia Webinar 9 30 09 Teaser Staceys Version

View more presentations from Children’s Advertising Review Unit.

Upcoming Speaking Engagement! Come Learn About CARU from the Source!

2009-10-14T10:05:00.002-04:00

ACI’s Advertising Law Conference

January 26-27, 2010, New York, NY

www.americanconference.com/advertisinglaw

Use code “FALL PROMO” to receive a special discount

FTC Speaks at CARU's Conference Regarding

2009-10-13T10:54:00.004-04:00

Attorney Michelle Rusk from the FTC reiterated while speaking at the Children's Advertising Review Unit (CARU) Conference in New York on Ocotber 7th that the FTC will be pushing companies to go the extra mile to ensure that advertising to children is done properly considering the crisis of childhood obesity--with one-third of American kids now clinically obese.

Click HERE to read Media Post's Article about what the FTC said at the CARU Conference.

Media Post News Also Wrote About CARU's Conference!

2009-10-13T10:46:00.000-04:00

Click HERE to read what they had to say about CARU's Conference.

Y-Pulse Attends CARU's Annual Conference

2009-10-13T10:28:00.004-04:00

Click HERE to read what Y-Pulse had to say about CARU's Annual Conference!

Check back soon for pictures from CARU's big day.

CARU Reaches Out to the Community

2009-09-29T12:03:00.000-04:00

On September 22, CARU staff attorney Andra Dallas visited the Housing, Human Services, and Youth Committee of Community Board 5, which serves midtown Manhattan. Andra gave a 20 minute presentation on CARU, specifically focusing on the importance of parental guidance in watching television and using the Internet with children. She gave a brief overview on CARU’s history and then explained the major topics covered in CARU’s Guidelines, providing a few concrete examples from television commercials and/or websites. Andra also explained that CARU engages in extensive monitoring of television and websites but welcomes complaints via the CARU website about advertising or privacy concerns that are inconsistent with CARU’s Guidelines

The audience was made up primarily of parents and teachers who live in the community and the presentation was very well received. This visit to Community Board 5 was the third of many that have been planned for the coming year, as part of CARU’s new community outreach initiatives.

If you would like a CARU staff member to give a presentation to your community group, please contact adallas@caru.bbb.org

Parry Aftab to Speak at CARU's Conference

2009-09-29T11:57:00.000-04:00

Parry Aftab was identified as "the leading expert in cybercrime in the United States," by the Boston Herald.

Jules Polonetsky, AOL's Chief Privacy Officer, said Parry was "part supermom, part Wonder Woman and part Oprah."

The US Congress formally honored her work in cyber-safety in 2005 and in 1999 UNESCO appointed her to head up its online child protection project for the United States.

Parry Aftab is known for her ability to "think outside of the box." Over the years Aftab has represented many of the leaders from the entertainment, Internet and consumer brand industries. Recently, Parry founded WiredTrust, a risk management consulting firm, to advise industry policy makers. When Internet policy, best practices and safety is involved, Parry Aftab is the first name mentioned.

Come to CARU's conference and learn why companies like MySpace, Facebook, Bebo and Webkinz, among others, have turned to her for help. Learn about the current issues on the digital playground from an expert.

CARU's 2nd Annual Conference! The Only Conference You Need to Attend if You're in Children's Advertising!

2009-09-23T11:48:00.001-04:00

Just a reminder that CARU's Annual Conference is just around the corner!!!

October 7, 2009 at New York City's W Hotel; 541 Lexington Ave.

It's not too late to get your tickets! Click Here to Learn More and Get Tickets today!

Expert panelists will consider challenging issues presently facing the Children’s Advertising Industry, focusing on how the digital age has changed the way companies market their products to children. Panelists will examine and demonstrate the practical application of governing standards and industry guidelines to these new emerging media platforms.

The conference will provide attendees with the opportunity to be on the forefront of the latest regulatory developments including an update on U.S. self-regulatory food initiatives, and the EU Privacy Directives.

Keynote speaker: Pete Blackshaw, Executive VP, Strategic Services, The Nielsen Company

Scheduled sessions: "The Rules of the Digital Playground,” "Delivered Straight from the Source: Examining the Latest Regulatory and Legal Framework for Addressing Emerging Media Forms,” "Recognition vs. Persuasiveness: What do kids know and when do they know it?” and “Working with CARU – The Anatomy of a CARU Case.”

Up to 5 Credits for Continuing Legal Education!

CARU Explains How We Review and Evaluate Child Directed Advertising

2009-09-23T11:34:00.000-04:00

Visit ToyInfo.org and watch Children's Advertising Review Unit (CARU) explain how we review and evaluate child-directed advertising in all media to help ensure accurate, responsible messaging.

Learn how we find our cases, what we look for when we monitor advertising and patrol the internet. Find out how you can help by sending complaints directly to CARU's attorneys. Learn what advertising claims parents should be wary of, what safety issues come up in advertising to children, and more!

CARU Collaborates with the Toy Industry Association on a CARU Consumer Video

2009-09-04T13:59:00.006-04:00

On August 27th, 2009, CARU took part in an important educational outreach piece, A CARU Consumer Video in collaboration with the Toy Industry Association, (TIA).

This video will go live on TIA's Consumer Website, www.toyinfo.org on September 21, 2009. This piece will be released in conjunction with CARU's Parent’s Guide to Advertising and Your Child 2009 which will also be featured on the Toyinfo Website.

Check out some pics to get a sneak peek of the CARU crew during the video shoot!

How Much Time Is Your Child Spending on the Internet?

2009-09-01T14:23:00.002-04:00

The amount of time children spend on the internet has jumped almost 63% in last 5 years. Click HERE to read the article! The statistics are truly incredible!

2009-08-31T11:44:00.002-04:00

Are your kids spending countless hours on social networking sites? Learn Safety tips for Tweens and Teens.

Click HERE to read this article by the FTC.

Your child's safety may be at stake!

Today Show: How Brand Savvy Are Teens? You Be the Judge!

2009-08-11T11:21:00.001-04:00

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Blogging Safety: Tips to Protect Your Children

2009-08-05T16:38:00.002-04:00

Are your kids blogging? Are you sure about that? Check out this article to make sure your kids are safe!

CARU Participates in FTC Workshop in Washington D.C.

2009-03-19T14:28:00.006-04:00

CARU welcomed the opportunity to participate in an important workshop held by the Federal Trade Commission in Washington D.C. concerning children's advertising literacy. The FTC is undertaking an initiative to provide children and tweens with information that will educate and empower them in order to better understand commercial messages. Speakers included marketing researchers, respected academics, and media literacy experts from the Center for Media Literacy and Media Awareness Network. CARU's own Director, Wayne Keeley shared his views that CARU's Self Regulatory Program for Children's Advertising, (the Guidelines) provide a strong basis for an advertising literacy program. The workshop proved an excellent forum for sharing ideas and gaining awareness in the field.

CARU's Annual Conference is Coming Soon...

2009-03-04T14:45:00.001-05:00

We are pleased to announce that we will be having our 2nd Annual Conference this year on October 7, 2009. Please save the date! Details to follow.

China's Advertising Association Visits New York

2009-03-04T11:58:00.004-05:00

On February 26, 2009 CARU (Phyllis Spaeth), NAD (Andrea Levine and David Mallen), and ERSP (Peter Marinello) hosted a meeting with several delegates from China's Advertising Association. Language was not a barrier because the delegation brought along an excellent interpreter. All parties gained insight into what the other does and all came to find that what we do is not all that different, even thousands of miles apart. We were even invited to come to CAA’s annual conference in Beijing. It was a pleasure having them and we hope to meet again in the future.

CARU at Toy Fair 2009

2009-02-18T11:43:00.003-05:00

CARU recently had the opportunity to explore Toy Fair. There were more than 100,000 products from over 1,200 companies! The show was a great opportunity for us to meet with our supporters as well as inform potential new supporters of just what we do. Thanks to all our wonderful supporters for taking time to meet with us!

Upcoming Events

2009-01-22T15:36:00.010-05:00

February 2-6, 2009
Wayne Keeley, CARU's Director Hits the West Coast
Mr. Keeley will be speaking at the Media Morphosis Conference in California on a panel called Approaching Web and Mobile 3.0: The Evolution of Digital Marketing. Mr. Keeley will also be meeting with several of our West Coast supporters to discuss upcoming events.

February 15-17, 2009
American International Toy Fair
CARU staff will attend the largest international toy trade show in the Western Hemisphere where the newest and hottest products in the children's entertainment marketplace are exhibited. CARU staff looks forward to meeting with Mattel, LEGO, Hasbro, Bandai, MegaBrands and more.

March 12, 2009
Wayne Keeley, CARU's Director to speak at Federal Trade Commission Workshop
The Federal Trade Commission staff will host a workshop on March 12, 2009 to gather input for its advertising literacy initiative, which will educate and empower tweens to be better informed consumers of information. This initiative seeks to raise awareness among tweens, or preadolescents, about advertising and marketing messages; improve their ability to read, analyze, and appreciate advertisements; and show them the benefits of being an informed consumer. The Federal Trade Commission works for consumers to prevent fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices and to provide information to help spot, stop, and avoid them.

April 21, 2009
Supporters' Council Meeting

April 2009 (Date to be Determined)
Academic/Expert Advisory Board Meeting
More information to follow...stay tuned...

CARU's First Annual Conference

2009-01-21T12:13:00.002-05:00

Welcome to Children's Advertising Review Unit

2009-01-21T10:06:00.001-05:00

The Children's Advertising Review Unit (CARU) was founded in 1974 to promote responsible children's advertising as part of a strategic alliance with the major advertising trade associations through the National Advertising Review Council (comprising the AAAA, the AAF, the ANA and the CBBB). CARU is the children's arm of the advertising industry's self-regulation program and evaluates child-directed advertising and promotional material in all media to advance truthfulness, accuracy and consistency with its Self-Regulatory Guidelines for Children's Advertising and relevant laws.

CARU's basic activities are the review and evaluation of child-directed advertising in all media, and online privacy practices as they affect children. When these are found to be misleading, inaccurate, or inconsistent with CARU's Self-Regulatory Guidelines for Children's Advertising, CARU seeks change through the voluntary cooperation of advertisers.

As an extension of its initial mission, to help advertisers deal sensitively with the child audience in a responsible manner, in 1996 CARU added a section to its Guidelines that highlight issues, including children's privacy, that are unique to the Internet and online sites directed at children age 12 and under. These Guidelines served as the basis of the federal Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998 (COPPA). CARU has established a Safe Harbor Program for our supporters to help them protect the privacy of children online, and meet the requirements of COPPA and our Guidelines.

CARU's Self-Regulatory Guidelines are deliberately subjective, going beyond the issues of truthfulness and accuracy to take into account the uniquely impressionable and vulnerable child audience.

CARU recognizes that the special nature and needs of a youthful audience require particular care and diligence on the part of advertisers. Consequently, CARU performs a high level of monitoring, including the scrutinizing of over ten thousand television commercials, and the review of advertisements in print, radio and online media.