The European Union says a new age verification app is technically ready and designed to meet the bloc’s strict digital rules.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Wednesday that the tool could soon help users prove their age online without sharing personal data.
How it works
Users will be able to download the app from an app store and set it up using proof of identity, such as a passport or national ID card. They can then use it to confirm they are above a required age when accessing restricted content, without revealing their identity.
The Commission says 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 enforcement of the Digital Services Act, helping restrict 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 also be adopted outside the EU.
Child safety on social media in focus
Pressure for EU action has grown since Australia introduced a ban on social media for under-16s. Several EU countries are considering minimum age limits for social media use, but until now there has been no reliable verification tool that meets the bloc’s strict data protection standards.
“When it comes to the safety of children online, the situation is extremely worrying,” von der Leyen said, citing features such as infinite scrolling, highly personalized content and short-form videos that can be addictive and harmful to young users.
While there is no binding EU-wide law yet, the European Parliament has called for a minimum age of 16 for social media access. For now, enforcement would largely fall to individual member states, but the new app is intended to help platforms comply with future national and EU rules.
Edited by: Srinivas Mazumdaru
