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Mobile Apps Still Collect Information On Kids

WASHINGTON (AP) -- It's been more than a year since regulators came out with new privacy rules for kids' mobile apps.

But online stores are still flooded with cute and silly software programs that quietly collect vast amounts of data on the youngest consumers.

In July 2013, the Federal Trade Commission began requiring that developers get parents' consent before collecting information on anyone younger than 13.

Privacy researchers say that overall, the industry is doing better. But a new site, called PrivacyGrade.org, finds that many mobile apps aimed at kids still collect information in ways parents wouldn't necessarily expect.

So if you don't want your family tracked by retailers and fast food chains, stick the phone in ``airplane mode.'' That shuts off the wireless connection, but you'll risk losing functionality.

(© Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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