Attorney General James Uthmeier has announced that Florida's Office of Parental Rights is pursuing a civil enforcement action against Roku, Inc. and its Florida subsidiary. The state alleges violations of the Florida Digital Bill of Rights (FDBOR) and the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act (FDUTPA).
"Florida families deserve to know what is happening with their children’s personal information," said Attorney General James Uthmeier. "Parents—not technology companies—direct the upbringing of their children. We will hold any company that conceals or exploits that information accountable."
Roku is known for providing a platform for streaming video content on televisions, acting similarly to a smartphone by giving access to various apps for movies, TV shows, live news, sports, and more. According to recent figures, Roku leads the U.S. market in streaming video distribution, reaching approximately 145 million people as of 2024.
The state's complaint claims Roku collected and sold sensitive data from children—including viewing habits and voice recordings—without proper authorization or adequate notice to families in Florida. The Attorney General’s office contends these actions violated state privacy laws by not obtaining parental consent before handling children's data and by misrepresenting how effective its privacy controls are.
The Florida Digital Bill of Rights was established to ensure consumers—and especially parents—have more control over their personal information. It requires companies to secure clear consent before selling or using children's sensitive data and mandates honest disclosure about data collection practices.
With this legal action, the Attorney General seeks civil penalties, injunctive relief, increased transparency from Roku regarding disclosures about personal information use, lawful parental-control mechanisms, and an end to unauthorized sales or processing of children’s data.
This lawsuit reflects ongoing efforts in Florida aimed at strengthening parental authority in digital matters and holding technology companies accountable for consumer protection issues.
A copy of the complaint can be accessed through Florida’s 20th Judicial Circuit.