Brussels, April 15, 2026
The European Union has unveiled plans for a new app designed to verify users' ages online without requiring additional personal data, aiming to protect minors while preserving privacy.
Privacy-Focused Age Verification
The EU's "Mini Wallet" app will allow users to prove they are adults without disclosing sensitive information such as their name or location, according to a European Commission official. The tool is intended to help enforce age restrictions on digital platforms while minimizing data exposure.
"Bei der sogenannten 'Mini Wallet' der EU könnten Nutzer nachweisen, dass sie volljährig sind, ohne weitere Informationen wie Name oder Standort preisgeben zu müssen," explained the Commission staffer. The app is expected to streamline compliance with upcoming EU regulations requiring age verification for certain online services.
Child Protection and Implementation
EU Technology Commissioner Henna Virkkunen emphasized the app's role in safeguarding children. "Diese App bietet Eltern, Lehrern und Betreuern ein wirksames Instrument zum Schutz von Kindern," she stated, adding that the EU will coordinate the rollout of mandatory age verification across member states.