A new online age verification app, created by the EU, is technically ready and aims to protect children online.
The European Union announced that a new age verification app is technically ready. The app is designed to meet the EU's strict digital rules.
The tool could soon help users prove their age online without sharing personal data, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced.
How it works?
Once launched, users will be able to download the application and configure it using an identification document, such as a passport or ID card.
They can then use this app to confirm that they are over a certain age when they want to access sites with restricted content, without revealing their identity.
According to the Commission, the system is similar to the digital certificates used during the COVID-19 pandemic, which allowed people to prove their vaccination status.
The app is expected to support the implementation of the Digital Services Act, which aims to better regulate online platforms. This includes restricting access to content such as pornography, gambling, and alcohol-related services.
Officials say the app will be "completely anonymous" and built on open-source technology, meaning it could be adopted outside the European Union.
Child safety on social networks in focus
Pressure to take action at the European level has increased since Australia banned the use of social media by minors under the age of 16.
Some EU countries are now considering setting minimum age limits for using social networks. However, until now there has been no reliable verification tool that meets the EU's strict data protection standards.
"When it comes to children's safety online, the situation is extremely worrying," said Ursula von der Leyen. She cited endless scrolling, highly personalized content and short videos, which she said could be addictive and harmful to young users.
Although there is not yet a binding law across the EU, the European Parliament has called for a minimum age of 16 for access to social networks.
For now, the implementation of these rules will remain largely in the hands of member states, but the new application aims to help platforms comply with future national and EU rules./DW/
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