Cyprus among first adopters in EU
Cyprus is among the leading EU member states adopting the new EU age verification application, aimed at protecting minors online, according to Ursula von der Leyen.
The announcement came during the presentation of a new European initiative designed to enhance child safety across digital platforms.
New tool to protect minors online
The EU age verification app, developed by the European Commission, allows users to prove their age when accessing online services without revealing additional personal data.
Officials said the tool ensures high privacy standards, enabling users to verify age anonymously without tracking or exposure of sensitive information.
The application is inspired by the digital wallet model and the COVID-19 vaccination certificates used during the pandemic.
Integration into national systems
According to the Commission, countries including Cyprus, France, Denmark, Greece, Italy, Spain, and Ireland are already moving to integrate the EU age verification system into their national digital wallets.
The app is technically ready and will soon be available across the European Union.
Open-source and widely accessible
The EU age verification solution is fully open-source and designed to function across devices, including mobile phones, tablets, and computers.
This allows developers and international partners to review and adopt the technology, expanding its potential global use.
Strict stance on platform compliance
Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen stressed that protecting minors remains a top priority and highlighted enforcement of the Digital Services Act.
She warned that platforms profiting at the expense of children would face strict consequences, noting increased scrutiny over addictive design features such as endless scrolling and autoplay.
Push for safer digital environment
EU officials emphasised that the lack of reliable age verification tools from platforms led to the development of the EU’s own solution.
The initiative also includes a coordination mechanism to ensure that age verification systems operate seamlessly across all member states.
Authorities reiterated that safeguarding children online is a core priority, with zero tolerance for violations of children’s rights in the digital space.
Source: CNA
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