EU urges member states faster rollout of age verification app to protect minors

The European Commission on Wednesday called on member states to accelerate the deployment of a new EU-wide age verification application, aiming to make it available before the end of the year.

The commission said in a statement that the tool, designed to be secure and privacy-preserving, will help protect children from harmful and inappropriate online content while safeguarding users' personal data.

According to the recommendation, member states can either launch the age verification solution as a standalone app or integrate it into a broader European Digital Identity Wallet.

The guidance also outlines steps to ensure interoperability and swift implementation across the bloc.

The commission has already developed a blueprint for the app, which allows users to confirm they meet a required age threshold without disclosing their exact age, identity, or other personal information, the statement noted.

National authorities are now responsible for customizing and rolling out the system domestically.

"Protecting children online is a priority for the Commission. Under the EU's Digital Services Act, online platforms must ensure a high level of privacy, security and safety for minors online," the statement said.