The European Commission unveiled a new age verification system designed to protect children from harmful online content, with President Ursula von der Leyen declaring there are no more excuses for platforms to avoid implementing child safety measures.
The system employs zero-knowledge proof technology, allowing users to verify their age without sharing personal data with social media platforms or websites. Users authenticate once using official documents like passports or electronic ID cards, generating age proof that platforms can verify without accessing underlying personal information.
This app will allow users to prove their age when accessing online platforms. Just like shops ask for proof of age for people buying alcoholic beverages
Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission President — South China Morning Post
Seven EU member states, including France, Spain, and Italy, plan to integrate the verification system into their national digital identity wallets. The open-source approach aims to create a unified European standard rather than fragmented national solutions.
The announcement coincides with mounting pressure from individual EU countries implementing their own social media restrictions. Greece plans to ban social media for under-15s starting next year, while French lawmakers have already approved legislation prohibiting social media use for the same age group and banning mobile phones in high schools.
Frames the initiative as part of a broader European leadership push, emphasizing French President Macron's coordinating role and highlighting successful legislative action. Positions the EU as proactively addressing child safety concerns while maintaining technological sovereignty through open-source solutions.