Guidelines and Age‑Verification App Prototype for a Safer Online Space for Children

 

On July 14, 2025, the European Commission released a set of guidelines to protect minors in the digital space, in line with the Digital Services Act (DSA), and introduced a prototype age-verification app.

• Guidelines for online platforms:

  • Minimize addictive features (such as streaks or read receipts).

  • Combat cyberbullying (enable block/mute options, limit screenshot/download of minors’ content).

  • Reduce exposure to harmful content, emphasizing human moderation over algorithmic suggestions.

  • Prevent unwanted contact by setting minors' accounts to private by default.

• Prototype of “verified-age” app:

  • Allows users to prove they are over 18 without revealing identity or detailed personal data.

  • Anonymized, with no tracking of content accessed.

  • Considered a privacy gold standard, compatible with the upcoming EU Digital Identity Wallet (eID Wallet), expected by the end of 2026.

  • Pilot testing will occur in Denmark, Greece, Spain, France, and Italy, involving collaboration with platforms and users, led by MEP Henna Virkkunen.

Additionally, investigations are ongoing into adult content platforms for insufficient age-verification practices.

Source: https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/pt/news/commission-presents-guidelines-and-age-verification-app-prototype-safer-online-space-children

Image: Sora