VPC Trust Alliance
Creating a better internet for children and vulnerable adults through building consensus on the development of technical standards, robust auditing, and certification processes.
The digital world's rapid evolution exposes both children and vulnerable adults to its vast, but potentially risky, landscapes. While the internet unlocks incredible opportunities, it also harbours serious threats. This necessitates clear differentiation in the term VPC, depending on the context:
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Verifiable Parental Consent
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Within children's online safety, VPC stands for Verifiable Parental Consent, a legal requirement for processing a child's data with parent/guardian approval. This ensures safer digital spaces for young minds.
2
Vulnerable Person Care
In adult safeguarding online, VPC signifies Vulnerable Person Care, encompassing dedicated programs and initiatives prioritizing the well-being of vulnerable individuals.
Both share the concept of delegated responsibility: parental consent for children and, in the adult context, mechanisms like lasting power of attorney (e.g., in a banking context) or self-exclusion from gambling, which serve similar protective purposes.
Examining both VPC interpretations both individually and together will enrich discussions and standard development by:
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Gathering diverse perspectives: By delving into both Verifiable Parental Consent for children and Vulnerable Person Care for adults, we can garner insights from a wider range of stakeholders, leading to more inclusive and informed standards.
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Identifying best practices: Analyzing both sets of practices separately allows us to pinpoint effective approaches within each, while comparing them reveals transferable strategies applicable to both areas.
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Strengthening understanding: Exploring the connections and discrepancies between the two VPC interpretations fosters a deeper understanding of data protection for vulnerable individuals across all ages.
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Who Are We?
As a powerful alliance, we unite leading companies like Privo and TrustElevate, alongside global regulators, academics, child rights advocates, and technology developers. We span across global, medium, and small companies, bringing unparalleled expertise in identity, privacy, child rights, security, and online safety.
The VPC Trust Alliance, fueled by this depth of knowledge and experience, will develop VPC technical standards that enable companies to comply with regulations and empower parents, children and vulnerable people. By joining forces, we can build a digital world where children are protected, parents are empowered, and trust flourishes.
What we do
We are building a framework for trust and certainty online, creating a safer internet for children and vulnerable adults and empowering digital parenting. To do this, we will:
01
Define the state of the art in VPC
We will examine existing methods, their assurance levels, and the ethical and legal considerations they raise.
03
Develop robust auditing and certification processes
Companies and organisations seeking to implement VPC solutions will have access to trusted verification and guidance.
02
Forge consensus on standardized assurance levels
As new technologies emerge, we will establish benchmarks for different consent methods, ensuring transparency and reliability.
04
Tailor solutions to regional and cultural contexts
From Europe's digital wallet ambitions to the unique realities of Kenya, Nigeria, and India, we will ensure that our comprehensive solutions are applicable globally.
05
Disseminate our findings and
recommendations
Policymakers, regulators, industry leaders, and consumer advocates will be equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to protect children online.