This article explains how CompTIA uses PRIVO to protect the privacy of minor learners and how parents or legal guardians can grant or manage consent.
What is PRIVO?
PRIVO is a trusted third-party privacy solutions provider that CompTIA uses to securely collect Verifiable Parental Consent (VPC) for learners under the age of 18.
PRIVO is an FTC-approved COPPA Safe Harbor organization and specializes in protecting children’s personal information online.
Why is parental consent required?
CompTIA must obtain verifiable parental or legal guardian consent before allowing minors to create accounts or access learning and certification services.
This ensures compliance with COPPA and global child data privacy regulations and helps protect minors’ personal information.
When will I be asked to provide consent?
You may be asked to provide consent when:
- A minor creates a new CompTIA account
- An existing CompTIA user is identified as a minor after confirming their age
In these cases, the minor’s account will remain on hold until consent is granted.
What happens when I receive a consent request?
When consent is requested:
- You will receive an email notifying you of the request
- You can choose to give permission or decline
- If you give permission, you will be directed to the PRIVO platform to complete the consent process
What does the consent process include?
As part of the PRIVO consent process, you will be asked to:
- Review CompTIA’s features and privacy terms
- Review the types of data collected from the minor
- Confirm or enter the minor’s legal name
- Complete adult identity verification
Adult verification confirms that you are a legal adult authorized to provide consent. Multiple secure verification options are available.
What happens after I complete consent?
Once consent is successfully completed:
- You and the minor will receive confirmation emails
- The minor will be able to log in to CompTIA Central
- The minor can access learning resources, exams, and certifications (as applicable)
What if I decline consent?
If you decline consent:
- The minor’s account will not be activated
- The minor will not be able to access CompTIA platforms or services
- The minor’s first name and email address will be deleted, and they would need to start over if they wish to create an account later
Can I revoke consent later?
Yes. Parents and legal guardians can revoke consent at any time through the PRIVO platform.
If consent is revoked:
- The minor will immediately lose access to CompTIA Central and related services
Can I request deletion of my child’s account?
Yes. If a parent wishes all data associated with the minor’s account, including certifications and learning data, a special request must be placed with CompTIA & PRIVO.
- To initiate the request, contact PRIVO Support at support@privo.com or call 1-866-567-7486 (U.S./Canada) or 1-571-297-1799 (outside U.S./Canada).
Once completed, all associated data, including personal information, learning progress, and certifications, will be permanently deleted and cannot be recovered. The data deletion process can take up to 2 weeks.
Who can parents or guardians contact for help?
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For PRIVO consent or adult‑verification issues:
support@privo.com -
For CompTIA account or platform questions:
Contact CompTIA Customer Support: Contact CompTIA Customer Support