European Commission's Age Verification App

The European Commission is developing an age verification app aimed at preventing children from accessing inappropriate online content while safeguarding adult user privacy.

Background and Legislative Context

The European Union has enacted multiple pieces of legislation targeting large online platforms, addressing risks like digital addiction, cyberbullying, and exposure to harmful content for minors.

Age Verification Prototype

• The prototype was presented under the Digital Services Act (DSA).
• Built on the technical specifications of the European Digital Identity Wallets (eID), slated for rollout by 2026.
• Countries such as Denmark, Greece, Spain, France, and Italy are collaborating to launch their own national versions.

Features

• The app allows users to verify age without revealing personal information.
• Employs zero-knowledge proof for high privacy protection.

Industry Response

• Legal and privacy concerns persist, with ongoing debates about classifying platforms like X as adult content providers.