EU Launches Digital Age Verification App for Child Safety

New EU Age Verification System Protects Minors Online

The European Commission has introduced a prototype age verification application designed to prevent minors from accessing inappropriate online content. The app is currently being tested in five member states: Denmark, France, Spain, Greece, and Italy.

Anonymous Verification Technology

The system anonymously verifies users' ages without storing personal data like names or birthdates. This privacy-focused approach aligns with the EU's strict GDPR regulations while restricting access to pornography and other age-restricted materials.

Integration with EU Digital Identity

Long-term plans include integrating the technology into the upcoming EU Digital Identity Wallet (eID), scheduled for launch in late 2026. This eID system, governed by the eIDAS regulation, will provide secure electronic identification across member states.

Danish Presidency Prioritizes Child Protection

Denmark is championing the initiative during its EU Council presidency. Digital Affairs Minister Caroline Stage Olsen emphasized: "Children deserve a safe digital childhood. Without proper age verification, we fail to protect children online."

New Platform Guidelines for Minor Protection

Complementing the verification app, the Commission issued guidelines requiring:

• Default private settings for minors' profiles
• Deactivation of addictive features like "streaks" in games
• Enhanced parental control options

Enforcement Under Digital Services Act

These measures implement the Digital Services Act (DSA), which imposes strict obligations on large online platforms. Non-compliance can result in fines up to 6% of global annual revenue. The DSA represents the EU's comprehensive approach to platform regulation, updating previous e-commerce directives.