EU Unveils Child Digital Protection Guidelines and Age-Verification App Prototype

The European Commission has unveiled digital protection guidelines for minors alongside a prototype age-verification application for online platforms, fulfilling requirements under the Digital Service Act. European Commission Vice President Henna Virkkunen announced the initiative. Italy, France, Spain, Greece, and Denmark will participate in the app’s pilot phase. This application represents a key component of the broader digital identity portfolio slated for completion by the end of 2026. The app will enable platforms to confirm users are over 18 without requiring the disclosure of additional personal information, safeguarding user privacy.