Tell people why you're collecting information, what they get in return, who will have access to the information, and how people can opt out of the arrangement. Creating cool features on your Web site for a young audience is hard enough. Complying with a new online privacy act may pose an even bigger challenge. A Cautionary Tale Tell shoppers up front what types of data you collect and how you may use them in the future. Here's how the Monica Lewinsky scandal highlighted the importance of privacy guidelines for retailers.
Many businesses collect more customer data than they'll ever use.
Only solicit the data you need. Build a Customer Database that Works Be clear about what you want your database to accomplish and let the design spring from that purpose. A look at what can be done. Or start an online bulletin board, where customers can talk about what's on their minds. This government agency oversees enforcement of privacy rules, including the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act .