The European Commission has launched a probe into how Snapchat, YouTube, the Apple App Store, and Google Play safeguard minors on their platforms, under the bloc’s Digital Services Act (DSA).
In a statement on Friday, the Commission said it has requested detailed information from the companies on their age verification systems and measures used to prevent minors from accessing illegal products, such as drugs and vapes, or harmful content, including material promoting eating disorders.
“Today, alongside national authorities in the member states, we are assessing whether the measures taken so far by the platforms are indeed protecting children,” said EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen.
The move signals Brussels’ continued push to ensure that major tech companies comply with the DSA, a landmark EU law that requires online platforms to do more to tackle illegal and harmful content.
Responding to the Commission’s request, a Google spokesperson said the company has already implemented systems to ensure age-appropriate experiences across its platforms, with “robust” parental controls in place.
“We keep expanding these efforts and continue to engage with the Commission on this critical area,” the spokesperson added.
The Commission’s scrutiny comes amid rising concerns over the impact of social media and digital platforms on young people’s mental health and exposure to illegal content online.
