Skip to main content
Shaping Europe’s digital future
Press release | Publication

Commission launches call for evidence for guidelines on protection of minors online under the Digital Services Act

The European Commission launched a call for evidence to gather feedback for its upcoming guidelines on protection of minors online, which, once adopted, will advise on how online platforms are to implement high levels of privacy, safety and security for minors online, as required by the Digital Services Act (DSA).

DSA logo

The Commission is seeking feedback on the proposed scope and approach of the guidelines, as well as on good practices and recommendations related to mitigation measures to the risks that minors can encounter online. The Commission invites all stakeholders to take part in the call for evidence, including by providing supporting scientific reports and research.

Online platforms should ensure that the rights and best interests of children are a central consideration when designing their services. Platforms should adopt a risk-based approach, regularly carry out impact assessments, and implement mitigation measures for any potential risks to minors stemming from their services. The work between the Commission and Member States on a harmonised approach to age verification also features in the guidelines.

With the exception of micro and small enterprises, the guidelines on the protection of minors will apply to all online platforms that are accessible to minors, including those that are not directed to minors, but still have underaged users, for instance due to inadequate age-assurance mechanisms.

The call for evidence remains open until 30 September 2024. The Commission will use stakeholders' input to draft the guidelines and conduct a separate consultation on the draft guidelines, which are planned to be adopted before summer 2025.

Participate in the call for evidence

Find further information about: