EU Commission to propose EU-wide minimum age for social media, linked to Digital Fairness Act

What happened

The European Commission will release a legislative proposal by the end of 2026 establishing an EU-wide minimum age for social media, building on the Special Panel's age‑tiered framework. The proposal may be incorporated into the Digital Fairness Act, which would address personalized ads, influencer marketing, age‑assurance measures and default safety settings for children. Enforcement would likely involve consumer‑protection authorities alongside the Digital Services Act.

Why it matters for trust and compliance

• Its status is announced. It is not law yet. Track it, but do not treat it as an obligation.
• The upcoming proposal could set EU‑wide age limits for minors on social platforms, reshaping platform design and advertising practices.
• It relates to DSA. The regulations library explains what that law requires.

Who is affected

Recommended actions

1. Check that privacy notices describe the practices this addresses.
2. Inventory where this data is shared or sold and whether opt-outs are honoured.
3. Inventory AI or automated decision systems in scope and their assessments.
4. Review age assurance and protections for minors' data.
5. Confirm handling of sensitive data categories meets the stricter rules.