Eu Cracks Down On Child Safety: Probes Into Snapchat, Youtube, And App Stores

EU Launches Major Child Safety Investigation

In a bold move to bolster online safety for minors, the European Union (EU) has initiated a sweeping investigation targeting popular platforms like Snapchat and YouTube, as well as major digital marketplaces Apple Pay and Google Play. Announced on October 10, this is the first major inquiry of its kind since the European Commission adopted new Guidelines on the Protection of Minors in July.

The EU's executive arm, the European Commission, has demanded these platforms provide detailed information on their age verification processes, and how effectively they prevent minors from accessing harmful content such as illegal products or dangerous materials promoting negative behaviors like eating disorders.

Scrutiny on Snapchat and YouTube

Snapchat has been asked to clarify its measures for ensuring users under 13, who are technically barred from the app, aren't bypassing age checks. This also includes detailing its safety protocols to prevent minors from buying illegal items. Similarly, YouTube's parent company, Google, has been queried about its video recommendation systems, amid concerns over minors accessing illicit content.

“Platforms have the obligation to ensure minors are safe on their services—be it through measures included in the guidelines on protection of minors, or equally efficient measures of their own choosing,” Henna Virkkunen, European Commission’s executive vice president for technological sovereignty, emphasized.

Apple and Alphabet in the Hot Seat

Besides the social media giants, the EU is also seeking explanations from Apple and Google's parent company, Alphabet, on their digital stores. Concerns have been raised about minors downloading harmful apps, such as gambling platforms or those facilitating explicit content creation. The Commission is interested in how these stores implement age ratings and restrict access.

This investigation underscores the EU's commitment, further solidified in 2023 with the Digital Services Act, to enact stringent online protections for minors and ensure safer digital environments.

Platforms Respond to EU Inquiries

Snap Inc., the company behind Snapchat, reported over 94.8 million active EU users, with significant numbers in France and Germany. The company has reiterated its dedication to user safety, utilizing advanced moderation tools and offering detailed risk assessments from the outset of this initiative.

In a statement, a Snap spokesperson asserted, “Our goal is to help Snapchatters communicate with their close friends and family in an environment that prioritizes their safety and reduces online risks.” They confirmed receipt of the EU's request and pledged full cooperation to provide the needed information.

While Apple and Alphabet have also been contacted for their input, neither company has yet issued a public comment on the investigation.