The European Commission has unveiled a new age verification application intended to enhance child protection online. On Wednesday, Commission President von der Leyen stated that the app will allow users to verify their age when accessing online platforms, similar to presenting identification when buying alcohol in a physical store. She emphasized that the app is user-friendly, complies with the highest data protection standards, and is entirely open-source.
The timeline and location where the app might become mandatory remain unclear. However, von der Leyen made it clear that the initiative aims to hold “online platforms accountable that do not adequately protect our children”. The Commission President stressed that the safety of children in the digital sphere is just as critical as it is in the physical world. She described the app as a direct response to escalating concerns from parents and member states regarding children’s online safety.
According to von der Leyen, the app represents another effort by the EU to develop innovative solutions for emerging problems, recalling the rapid development and global use of the previous COVID-19 app. The age verification app will follow similar principles and is slated for integration by member states and global partners to shield children from harmful and illegal content.
Furthermore, a committee convened last month to address the safety of children online is expected to submit its recommendations by the summer.
