Several countries have already expressed plans to use it. Today, Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, revealed an EU age-verification app. Users can download the app on devices like phones and computers, input their passport or ID card, and verify their age for online services. Von der Leyen stated in a live announcement, available on the EC’s website, that the app is “completely anonymous” with only age credentials being stored.
She likened its development to the COVID app used for vaccine verification, noting its success in 78 countries. The age verification app follows a similar structure.
Countries planning to include the app in their digital wallets include France, Denmark, and others, with online platforms also having access to its open source code. Von der Leyen also mentioned having addressed concerns on children’s online safety with an EU special panel set to meet again.
Age verification laws exist in several Western countries aiming to protect minors from inappropriate content. However, studies suggest these laws might be flawed as VPNs allow circumvention and non-compliant sites remain accessible. The new EU app’s efficacy in these situations is yet to be observed.
Age-verification laws reportedly affect sex educators and workers negatively, impacting their income and work.