On September 17, 2026, the European Commission (EC) published a proposed “EU KIDS Act,” which would impose minimum-age requirements to access social media and video-sharing platforms, subject to mandatory age verification, as well as an obligation for covered entities, including providers of online games and AI chatbots and AI companions, to build specific safety features by design.
Continue Reading European Commission Proposes “EU KIDS Act” to Restrict Children’s Access to Online ServicesMichaela Novakova
UK Announces Social Media Ban and Broader Online Restrictions for Users Under 16
Posted in Regulatory
On June 15, 2026, the UK government announced plans to introduce a social media ban for users under 16 (under-16s), alongside restrictions on features deemed harmful to minors, such as livestreaming and messaging functions, for a wider range of online services, including those in the gaming sector. These measures, which may require platforms active in the UK market to significantly alter their operations, are expected to come into force in Spring 2027.
Continue Reading UK Announces Social Media Ban and Broader Online Restrictions for Users Under 16What’s Next for Age Assurance Laws in Europe?
Posted in Cybersecurity
Developments in law, regulatory guidance, and enforcement practice across Europe are leading to meaningful changes in how online services are offered to minors. A steady stream of announcements in recent months makes clear that this area will continue to develop at pace, requiring providers of online services to keep their approach to age assurance under regular review.
Continue Reading What’s Next for Age Assurance Laws in Europe?