European age verification app to ensure children’s online safety

The European Commission has announced that a new age verification app, designed to protect minors online, is ready to be launched. In a recent statement, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed that the technology is ready and will soon be available for citizens to use. The app will allow usersto verify their agewhen accessing online platforms, which will help protect minorsfrom harmful or inappropriate content.

Given that children are spending more time online than ever before, and in light of widespread bullying and the addictive design of platforms, their safety has become a major concern. To prevent both exposure to harmful and illegal content and the recruitment of children by online predators, the Commission is proposing an innovative European solution. The new age verification app is easy to use and can be installed using a passport or ID card, allowing users to prove their age when accessing online services. The app is completely anonymous,works on any device and uses open-source software, meaning that partner countries around the world can also adopt it.

The app is a free and user-friendly solution that digital platforms can easily rely on to improve online safety for children. Some EU countries already plan to integrate the app into their national digital identity wallets, and the Commission President called on more EU countries and the private sector to follow their example.

The EU remains committed to making the digital world safer for children. With the age verification app, the EU is taking decisive action to protect children and hold online platforms to account, prioritising children’s safety over commercial interests.

More information: European Commission.