Better Business Bureau 

Today’s kids are more tech-savvy than ever. Thanks to technology, they can send their Christmas wish list directly to Santa via email. Dozens of website domain names have been registered in the name of Santa Claus.

One of the most popular websites is www.EmailSanta.com. Not only can children send their wish list to Santa, but they can also send a letter to Rudolph from their pet, read Santa’s blog, watch live webcams or read his tweets on Twitter.

Before allowing your children to share any personal information on a “Letter to Santa” website, BBB’s Children’s Advertising Review Unit (CARU) recommends that you review the website’s privacy policy.

“Even Santa has to comply with BBB’s Children’s Advertising Review guidelines and the federal Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act,” said BBB President Tom Bartholomy. “All websites directed at children, or designed with a special children’s section, should have a privacy policy,” Bartholomy added.

Privacy policies should include:

 

• The website’s information collection practices.
• The name of the company and the company’s complete contact information.
• Whether the company shares information with third parties, including advertisers.
• If the company publicly discloses or retains information for any future purpose.

 

BBB has the following ‘Dear Santa’ advice for parents:

 

• Do not allow your child to give more information than is reasonably necessary – a first name and email address, for instance.

 

• Do not give your child’s home address because Santa already knows where all children live.

 

• Check websites for unwelcome content. Some Santa websites are for adults and may contain language or advertising that is not for children.

 

For more information on how to keep your kids safe online, please visit BBB.